## Python Packaging: When to Use \'setup.py develop\' vs. \'setup.py install\'?

Understanding the Difference Between 'setup.py develop' and 'setup.py install'

The setup.py script provides two options for installing Python packages: 'develop' and 'install'. While both serve the purpose of installing a package, they differ in their intended usage and functionality.

Purpose of 'install'

'python setup.py install' is designed for standard package installations, such as installing third-party libraries or prepackaged distributions. This command installs the package's files into the Python site-packages directory, enabling the package's functionality to be accessed by all Python scripts within the current environment.

Purpose of 'develop'

In contrast, 'python setup.py develop' is specifically intended for development purposes. It installs the package's source code into a designated location within the environment, often referred to as an "editable installation."

Key Differences

The main distinction between 'install' and 'develop' lies in their behavior when the package's source code is modified:

• 'install': Changes made to the source code after installation will not be reflected in the installed package. The package's functionality will remain the same until it is reinstalled.
• 'develop': Using 'develop', modifications to the source code will be instantly reflected in the installed package, allowing developers to make changes and test them without the need to reinstall the package each time.

Usage Recommendations

• For the initial installation of a package that you do not intend to modify or debug: Use 'python setup.py install'.
• For your own packages, where you want to make frequent code changes and track the impact of those changes: Use 'python setup.py develop'.
• For convenience, it is recommended to use 'pip install .' for regular installations and 'pip install -e .' for developer installations, as invoking 'setup.py' directly can lead to dependency issues and other complications.

Note: The develop counterpart for the modern Python -m build approach is 'python -m build -e .'

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