Python Module Importing Issues

Question

I run Windows 7, and I can import built-in modules, but when I save my own script and try to import it in IDLE, I get an error saying that the module doesn't exist.

I use the Python text editor found by clicking "File" and "New Window" from the Python Shell. I save it as a .py file within a Module folder I created within the Python directory. However, whenever i type import module_name in IDLE, it says that the module doesn't exist.

What am I doing wrong, or not doing? I've tried import module_name, import module_name.py, python module_name, python module_name.py

Answer 1

Python uses PYTHONPATH environment variable to define a list of folders which should be looked at when importing modules. Most likely your folder is not PYTHONPATH

Answer 2

The way to import your own modules is to place the file in the directory of your program and use the following code:

from Module import *

where Module is the name of your module.

Answer 3

Try to add the module's path to sys.path variable:

import sys

sys.path.append(pathToModule)