python / python/devguide

Promote how to install dependencies

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type-bug
Dominant language
Python
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Description

Prior discussion:

  • #1337

I opened PR #1337 since I was puzzled that we tell people how to configure and build CPython before we tell them how to install third party dependencies for extension modules like tkinter, sqlite3, and curses; in my mind, we should tell people how to install dependencies before we tell them how to configure and build CPython. I asked about this on Discord, and based on the responses, I created PR #1337. However, reordering these sections is controversial, so we need more discussion.

Arguments for keeping the current layout:

  • historically, most extension modules were considered optional; for most uses this is also the case, so a simple process (configure, build) is better than a complex process (install deps, configure, build)

Arguments for reordering the layout:

  • from time to time, we topics are opened on Discord and bug-reports are opened on the CPython repo where people complain that their CPython build "failed" because dependencies for some extension modules were not found; often, the answer to these reports is to point them to Install dependencies in the Devguide
  • many people do not view the extension modules of the stdlib as optional; they expect the stdlib to be "complete" when they build CPython locally
  • more advanced developers/users may expect a layout where dependencies are installed before one configure and build CPython

Contributor guide

Open the contributing guide

First steps

  1. Read the whole issue, then the project's contributing guide.
  2. Comment on the issue to say you are picking it up — it saves two people doing the same work.
  3. Fork the repository and make your change on a branch.
  4. Open a pull request that references the issue number.

Research direction

Start by reading the prior discussion and PR #1337, then inspect the Devguide’s current Install dependencies and configure/build sections. Resolve whether the dependency instructions should be promoted and document the agreed ordering; completion requires a decided layout and updated documentation.

Written by the indexing model from the issue text.

Assessment

Tech stack
python
Domain
documentation
Issue type
Documentation
Difficulty
5/5
Estimated time
Over a week
Activity status
Stale
Clarity
Needs clarification
Newbie friendliness
25/100

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