Using alternative Python shells – bpython

bpython was created for developers who want more functionality in their Python environment without the overhead or learning curve associated with IPython. Hence, bpython provides many IDE-style features, but in a lightweight package. Some of the features available include:

• In-line syntax highlighting
• Autocomplete suggestions as you type
• Suggested parameters for function completion
• A code rewind feature that pops out the last line and re-evaluates the entire source code
• Pastebin integration, allowing visible code to be sent to the Pastebin site

Getting ready

To use bpython, in addition to downloading the package itself you will also have to ensure that the following packages are installed on your system:

• Pygments
• requests
• Sphinx (optional; for documentation only)
• mock (optional; for the test suite only)
• babel (optional; for internationalization purposes)
• curtsies
• greenlet
• urwid (optional; for bpython-urwind only)
• requests[security] for Python versions < 2.7.7

How...