How to Call a Python Script from a Batch File

Batch files (with the .bat extension) are a convenient way to automate tasks on Windows. If you're working with Python, you might need to execute a Python script from a batch file—whether for automation, scheduling, or simplifying workflows. In this guide, we'll cover the easiest and most reliable way to do this using the subprocess module, one of Python's most popular modules for running external commands.

Prerequisites

Before proceeding, ensure you have:

Python installed on your system (preferably Python 3.x).
A basic understanding of batch scripting.
The Python script you want to execute (e.g., script.py).

Method 1: Directly Calling Python from Batch File

The simplest way to run a Python script from a batch file is by invoking the Python interpreter directly. Here’s how:

Step 1: Create a Batch File

Open Notepad or any text editor and write the following command:

@echo off
python "C:\path\to\your\script.py"
pause

Replace C:\path\to\your\script.py with the actual path to your Python script.

Step 2: Save the File

Save the file with a .bat extension (e.g., run_script.bat).

Step 3: Run the Batch File

Double-click the batch file, and it will execute your Python script.

Method 2: Using Full Python Path (Recommended for Reliability)

Sometimes, the system may not recognise the python command due to PATH issues. To avoid this, use the full path to the Python executable.

Step 1: Locate Python Executable

Find where Python is installed (usually in C:\Users\YourUsername\AppData\Local\Programs\Python\PythonXX\python.exe).

Step 2: Modify the Batch File

Update the batch file with the full path:

@echo off
"C:\path\to\python.exe" "C:\path\to\your\script.py"
pause

Method 3: Passing Arguments to the Python Script

If your Python script accepts command-line arguments, you can pass them via the batch file:

@echo off
python "C:\path\to\your\script.py" arg1 arg2
pause

In your Python script, use sys.argv to access these arguments.

Best Practices

Error Handling: Add checks to confirm Python is installed.
Logging: Redirect output to a log file for debugging.
Virtual Environments: If using a virtual environment, activate it first.

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