Here’s how to install virtualenv and troubleshoot if it doesn’t work initially.

1. Install virtualenv Using pip

Run the following command to install virtualenv:

pip install virtualenv

You might see a message like:

Defaulting to user installation because normal site-packages is not writeable

This means virtualenv was installed in your user directory.

2. Test if virtualenv Works

Check if the virtualenv command is available:

virtualenv --version

If it works, you’re all set and can start using it.

If it doesn’t work and you see an error like command not found, it’s likely a PATH issue. Follow the steps below to fix it.

3. Fix the PATH Issue

If virtualenv doesn’t work, it’s because the executable is not in your system’s PATH.

Find the Installation Path:

Run the following command to locate where virtualenv is installed:

python3 -m site --user-base

Example output:

/Users/ajotwani/Library/Python/3.9

The virtualenv executable is located in the bin directory of this path:

/Users/ajotwani/Library/Python/3.9/bin

Add the Path to ~/.zshrc:

Add the bin directory to your PATH by updating your ~/.zshrc file:

echo 'export PATH=$PATH:/Users/ajotwani/Library/Python/3.9/bin' >> ~/.zshrc

Reload your shell configuration:

source ~/.zshrc

4. Verify Again

After updating the PATH, check if virtualenv works:

virtualenv --version

If this now works, your setup is complete.

5. Create and Use Virtual Environments

To deactivate it:

deactivate

To activate it:

source myenv/bin/activate

To create a new virtual environment:

virtualenv myenv