Command referenceconda create python
conda create python command (Linux & Windows / Conda)
What it does
Create a Conda environment that pins a specific Python version as the interpreter. When people look up conda create python version, they usually want safe flags, copyable examples, and how this Conda subcommand fits Anaconda or Miniconda workflows on Linux, Windows, and macOS. Syntax, options, and practical examples are below.
Create a Conda environment that pins a specific Python version as the interpreter.
Syntax
conda create -n ENV python=X.Y [packages...]
Common options
| Flag / option | Meaning |
|---|---|
| python=X.Y | Requested Python major.minor version. |
| -n, --name | New environment name. |
| -c, --channel | Channel used to resolve Python builds. |
| -y, --yes | Skip confirmation. |
Practical examples
Python 3.12 env
conda create -n py312 python=3.12
Creates an env whose default python is 3.12.
With science stack
conda create -n analysis python=3.11 numpy pandas
Pins Python and installs common data packages together.
conda-forge Python
conda create -n forge-py -c conda-forge python=3.10
Resolves Python from conda-forge.
Verify
conda activate py312 && python -V
Confirms the interpreter version after activation.
Common mistakes
- Writing `python3.11` as a package name instead of `python=3.11`.
- Creating the env successfully but running system Python because activation was skipped.
Related commands
- conda createCreate a new isolated Conda environment with an optional Python version and starter packages.
- conda activateActivate a named or path-based Conda environment in the current shell session.
- conda installInstall packages into the active or named Conda environment from configured channels.
- conda listList packages installed in the active or named Conda environment.
- conda env listList all Conda environments and mark the currently active one.
- aptSearch, install, update, and remove packages on Debian-based systems.
- conda env createCreate an environment from an environment.yml (or similar) specification file.
- conda infoShow Conda installation details, active environment, channels, and platform metadata.
FAQ
What does conda create python do in Conda?
Create a Conda environment that pins a specific Python version as the interpreter.
Does conda create python work on Windows and Linux?
Yes. Conda runs on Linux, Windows, and macOS; shell activation differs slightly after `conda init`, but the CLI flags are the same.
What is a practical conda create python example?
Try `conda create -n py312 python=3.12` — Creates an env whose default python is 3.12.
Is mamba the same as conda create python?
Mamba is a faster drop-in solver for many Conda workflows. Prefer `mamba` only when it is installed; otherwise use the Conda commands on this page.
Browse the full Linux and Windows command reference to search more bash, CMD, PowerShell, Conda, and GitHub CLI commands.