Starting Python
After you have opened Terminal (or if you are not using a Mac, the equivalent Unix/Linux shell program), type this:
python
Then press Return (or Enter). You will see the word Python followed by some numbers, as shown above. The numbers tell you which version you are running.
To quit Python, press Control-d. Doing so will return you to the normal command prompt.
To quit Terminal, Command-q (just like every other Mac OS application).