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1
1
2
2
3 .. _`nbconvert script`:
3 .. _`nbconvert script`:
4
4
5 Converting notebooks to other formats
5 Converting notebooks to other formats
6 =====================================
6 =====================================
7
7
8 Newly added in the 1.0 release of IPython is the ``nbconvert`` tool, which
8 Newly added in the 1.0 release of IPython is the ``nbconvert`` tool, which
9 allows you to convert an ``.ipynb`` notebook document file into various static
9 allows you to convert an ``.ipynb`` notebook document file into various static
10 formats.
10 formats.
11
11
12 Currently, ``nbconvert`` is provided as a command line tool, run as a script
12 Currently, ``nbconvert`` is provided as a command line tool, run as a script
13 using IPython. In the future, a direct export capability from within the
13 using IPython. In the future, a direct export capability from within the
14 IPython Notebook web app is planned.
14 IPython Notebook web app is planned.
15
15
16 The command-line syntax to run the ``nbconvert`` script is::
16 The command-line syntax to run the ``nbconvert`` script is::
17
17
18 $ ipython nbconvert --format=FORMAT notebook.ipynb
18 $ ipython nbconvert --format=FORMAT notebook.ipynb
19
19
20 This will convert the IPython document file ``notebook.ipynb`` into the output
20 This will convert the IPython document file ``notebook.ipynb`` into the output
21 format given by the ``FORMAT`` string.
21 format given by the ``FORMAT`` string.
22
22
23 The default output format is HTML, for which the ``--format`` modifier may be
23 The default output format is HTML, for which the ``--format`` modifier may be
24 omitted::
24 omitted::
25
25
26 $ ipython nbconvert notebook.ipynb
26 $ ipython nbconvert notebook.ipynb
27
27
28 The currently supported export formats are the following:
28 The currently supported export formats are the following:
29
29
30 * HTML:
30 * HTML:
31
31
32 - **full_html**:
32 - **full_html**:
33 Standard HTML
33 Standard HTML
34
34
35 - **simple_html**:
35 - **simple_html**:
36 Simplified HTML
36 Simplified HTML
37
37
38 - **reveal**:
38 - **reveal**:
39 HTML slideshow presentation for use with the ``reveal.js`` package
39 HTML slideshow presentation for use with the ``reveal.js`` package
40
40
41 * PDF:
41 * PDF:
42
42
43 - **sphinx_howto**:
43 - **sphinx_howto**:
44 The format for Sphinx_ HOWTOs; similar to an ``article`` in LaTeX
44 The format for Sphinx_ HOWTOs; similar to an ``article`` in LaTeX
45
45
46 - **sphinx_manual**:
46 - **sphinx_manual**:
47 The format for Sphinx_ manuals; similar to a ``book`` in LaTeX
47 The format for Sphinx_ manuals; similar to a ``book`` in LaTeX
48
48
49 - **latex**:
49 - **latex**:
50 An article formatted completely using LaTeX
50 An article formatted completely using LaTeX
51
51
52 * Markup:
52 * Markup:
53
53
54 - **rst**:
54 - **rst**:
55 reStructuredText_ markup
55 reStructuredText_ markup
56
56
57 - **markdown**:
57 - **markdown**:
58 Markdown_ markup
58 Markdown_ markup
59
59
60 .. _Sphinx: http://sphinx-doc.org/
60 .. _Sphinx: http://sphinx-doc.org/
61 .. _reStructuredText: http://docutils.sourceforge.net/rst.html
61 .. _reStructuredText: http://docutils.sourceforge.net/rst.html
62 .. _Markdown: http://daringfireball.net/projects/markdown/syntax
62
63
63 * Python:
64 * Python:
64
65
65 Comments out all the non-Python code to produce a ``.py`` Python
66 Comments out all the non-Python code to produce a ``.py`` Python
66 script with just the code content. Currently the output includes IPython
67 script with just the code content. Currently the output includes IPython
67 magics, and so can be run with ``ipython``, after changing the extension
68 magics, and so can be run with ``ipython``, after changing the extension
68 of the script to ``.ipy``.
69 of the script to ``.ipy``.
69
70
70 The files output file created by ``nbconvert`` will have the same base name as
71 The files output file created by ``nbconvert`` will have the same base name as
71 the notebook and will be placed in the current working directory. Any
72 the notebook and will be placed in the current working directory. Any
72 supporting files (graphics, etc) will be placed in a new directory with the
73 supporting files (graphics, etc) will be placed in a new directory with the
73 same base name as the notebook, suffixed with ``_files``::
74 same base name as the notebook, suffixed with ``_files``::
74
75
75 $ ipython nbconvert notebook.ipynb
76 $ ipython nbconvert notebook.ipynb
76 $ ls
77 $ ls
77 notebook.ipynb notebook.html notebook_files/
78 notebook.ipynb notebook.html notebook_files/
78
79
79 Each of the options for PDF export produces as an intermediate step a LaTeX
80 Each of the options for PDF export produces as an intermediate step a LaTeX
80 ``.tex`` file with the same basename as the notebook, as well as individual
81 ``.tex`` file with the same basename as the notebook, as well as individual
81 files for each figure, and ``.text`` files with textual output from running
82 files for each figure, and ``.text`` files with textual output from running
82 code cells.
83 code cells.
83
84
84 To actually produce the final PDF file, run the following commands::
85 To actually produce the final PDF file, run the following commands::
85
86
86 $ ipython nbconvert --format=latex notebook.ipynb
87 $ ipython nbconvert --format=latex notebook.ipynb
87 $ pdflatex notebook
88 $ pdflatex notebook
88
89
89 This requires a local installation of LaTeX on your machine.
90 This requires a local installation of LaTeX on your machine.
90 The output is a PDF file ``notebook.pdf``, also placed inside the
91 The output is a PDF file ``notebook.pdf``, also placed inside the
91 ``nbconvert_build`` subdirectory.
92 ``nbconvert_build`` subdirectory.
92
93
93 Alternatively, the output may be sent to standard output with::
94 Alternatively, the output may be sent to standard output with::
94
95
95 $ ipython nbconvert notebook.ipynb --stdout
96 $ ipython nbconvert notebook.ipynb --stdout
96
97
97 Multiple notebooks can be specified from the command line::
98 Multiple notebooks can be specified from the command line::
98
99
99 $ ipython nbconvert notebook*.ipynb
100 $ ipython nbconvert notebook*.ipynb
100 $ ipython nbconvert notebook1.ipynb notebook2.ipynb
101 $ ipython nbconvert notebook1.ipynb notebook2.ipynb
101
102
102 or via a list in a configuration file, say ``mycfg.py``, containing the text::
103 or via a list in a configuration file, say ``mycfg.py``, containing the text::
103
104
104 c = get_config()
105 c = get_config()
105 c.NbConvertApp.notebooks = ["notebook1.ipynb", "notebook2.ipynb"]
106 c.NbConvertApp.notebooks = ["notebook1.ipynb", "notebook2.ipynb"]
106
107
107 and using the command::
108 and using the command::
108
109
109 $ ipython nbconvert --config mycfg.py
110 $ ipython nbconvert --config mycfg.py
110
111
111
112
112 Extracting standard Python files from notebooks
113 Extracting standard Python files from notebooks
113 -----------------------------------------------
114 -----------------------------------------------
114 ``.ipynb`` notebook document files are plain text files which store a
115 ``.ipynb`` notebook document files are plain text files which store a
115 representation in JSON format of the contents of a notebook space. As such,
116 representation in JSON format of the contents of a notebook space. As such,
116 they are not valid ``.py`` Python scripts, and so can be neither imported
117 they are not valid ``.py`` Python scripts, and so can be neither imported
117 directly with ``import`` in Python, nor run directly as a standard Python
118 directly with ``import`` in Python, nor run directly as a standard Python
118 script (though both of these are possible with simple workarounds).
119 script (though both of these are possible with simple workarounds).
119
120
120
121
121 To extract the Python code from within a notebook document, the simplest
122 To extract the Python code from within a notebook document, the simplest
122 method is to use the ``File | Download as | Python (.py)`` menu item; the
123 method is to use the ``File | Download as | Python (.py)`` menu item; the
123 resulting ``.py`` script will be downloaded to your browser's default
124 resulting ``.py`` script will be downloaded to your browser's default
124 download location.
125 download location.
125
126
126 An alternative is to pass an argument to the IPython Notebook, from the moment
127 An alternative is to pass an argument to the IPython Notebook, from the moment
127 when it is originally started, specifying that whenever it saves an ``.ipynb``
128 when it is originally started, specifying that whenever it saves an ``.ipynb``
128 notebook document, it should, at the same time, save the corresponding
129 notebook document, it should, at the same time, save the corresponding
129 ``.py`` script. To do so, you can execute the following command::
130 ``.py`` script. To do so, you can execute the following command::
130
131
131 $ ipython notebook --script
132 $ ipython notebook --script
132
133
133 or you can set this option permanently in your configuration file with::
134 or you can set this option permanently in your configuration file with::
134
135
135 c = get_config()
136 c = get_config()
136 c.NotebookManager.save_script=True
137 c.NotebookManager.save_script=True
137
138
138 The result is that standard ``.py`` files are also now generated, which
139 The result is that standard ``.py`` files are also now generated, which
139 can be ``%run``, imported from regular IPython sessions or other notebooks, or
140 can be ``%run``, imported from regular IPython sessions or other notebooks, or
140 executed at the command line, as usual. Since the raw code you have typed is
141 executed at the command line, as usual. Since the raw code you have typed is
141 exported, you must avoid using syntax such as IPython magics and other
142 exported, you must avoid using syntax such as IPython magics and other
142 IPython-specific extensions to the language for the files to be able to be
143 IPython-specific extensions to the language for the files to be able to be
143 successfully imported.
144 successfully imported.
144 .. or you can change the script's extension to ``.ipy`` and run it with::
145 .. or you can change the script's extension to ``.ipy`` and run it with::
145 ..
146 ..
146 .. $ ipython script.ipy
147 .. $ ipython script.ipy
147
148
148 In normal Python practice, the standard way to differentiate importable code
149 In normal Python practice, the standard way to differentiate importable code
149 in a Python script from the "executable" part of a script is to use the
150 in a Python script from the "executable" part of a script is to use the
150 following idiom at the start of the executable part of the code::
151 following idiom at the start of the executable part of the code::
151
152
152 if __name__ == '__main__'
153 if __name__ == '__main__'
153
154
154 # rest of the code...
155 # rest of the code...
155
156
156 Since all cells in the notebook are run as top-level code, you will need to
157 Since all cells in the notebook are run as top-level code, you will need to
157 similarly protect *all* cells that you do not want executed when other scripts
158 similarly protect *all* cells that you do not want executed when other scripts
158 try to import your notebook. A convenient shortand for this is to define
159 try to import your notebook. A convenient shortand for this is to define
159 early on::
160 early on::
160
161
161 script = __name__ == '__main__'
162 script = __name__ == '__main__'
162
163
163 Then in any cell that you need to protect, use::
164 Then in any cell that you need to protect, use::
164
165
165 if script:
166 if script:
166 # rest of the cell...
167 # rest of the cell...
167
168
168
169
169
170
170 .. _notebook_format:
171 .. _notebook_format:
171
172
172 Notebook JSON file format
173 Notebook JSON file format
173 -------------------------
174 -------------------------
174 Notebook documents are JSON files with an ``.ipynb`` extension, formatted
175 Notebook documents are JSON files with an ``.ipynb`` extension, formatted
175 as legibly as possible with minimal extra indentation and cell content broken
176 as legibly as possible with minimal extra indentation and cell content broken
176 across lines to make them reasonably friendly to use in version-control
177 across lines to make them reasonably friendly to use in version-control
177 workflows. You should be very careful if you ever manually edit this JSON
178 workflows. You should be very careful if you ever manually edit this JSON
178 data, as it is extremely easy to corrupt its internal structure and make the
179 data, as it is extremely easy to corrupt its internal structure and make the
179 file impossible to load. In general, you should consider the notebook as a
180 file impossible to load. In general, you should consider the notebook as a
180 file meant only to be edited by the IPython Notebook app itself, not for
181 file meant only to be edited by the IPython Notebook app itself, not for
181 hand-editing.
182 hand-editing.
182
183
183 .. note::
184 .. note::
184
185
185 Binary data such as figures are also saved directly in the JSON file.
186 Binary data such as figures are also saved directly in the JSON file.
186 This provides convenient single-file portability, but means that the
187 This provides convenient single-file portability, but means that the
187 files can be large; a ``diff`` of binary data is also not very
188 files can be large; a ``diff`` of binary data is also not very
188 meaningful. Since the binary blobs are encoded in a single line, they
189 meaningful. Since the binary blobs are encoded in a single line, they
189 affect only one line of the ``diff`` output, but they are typically very
190 affect only one line of the ``diff`` output, but they are typically very
190 long lines. You can use the ``Cell | All Output | Clear`` menu option to
191 long lines. You can use the ``Cell | All Output | Clear`` menu option to
191 remove all output from a notebook prior to committing it to version
192 remove all output from a notebook prior to committing it to version
192 control, if this is a concern.
193 control, if this is a concern.
193
194
194 The notebook server can also generate a pure Python version of your notebook,
195 The notebook server can also generate a pure Python version of your notebook,
195 using the ``File | Download as`` menu option. The resulting ``.py`` file will
196 using the ``File | Download as`` menu option. The resulting ``.py`` file will
196 contain all the code cells from your notebook verbatim, and all Markdown cells
197 contain all the code cells from your notebook verbatim, and all Markdown cells
197 prepended with a comment marker. The separation between code and Markdown
198 prepended with a comment marker. The separation between code and Markdown
198 cells is indicated with special comments and there is a header indicating the
199 cells is indicated with special comments and there is a header indicating the
199 format version. All output is removed when exporting to Python.
200 format version. All output is removed when exporting to Python.
200
201
201 As an example, consider a simple notebook called ``simple.ipynb`` which
202 As an example, consider a simple notebook called ``simple.ipynb`` which
202 contains one Markdown cell, with the content ``The simplest notebook.``, one
203 contains one Markdown cell, with the content ``The simplest notebook.``, one
203 code input cell with the content ``print "Hello, IPython!"``, and the
204 code input cell with the content ``print "Hello, IPython!"``, and the
204 corresponding output.
205 corresponding output.
205
206
206 The contents of the notebook document ``simple.ipynb`` is the following JSON
207 The contents of the notebook document ``simple.ipynb`` is the following JSON
207 container::
208 container::
208
209
209 {
210 {
210 "metadata": {
211 "metadata": {
211 "name": "simple"
212 "name": "simple"
212 },
213 },
213 "nbformat": 3,
214 "nbformat": 3,
214 "nbformat_minor": 0,
215 "nbformat_minor": 0,
215 "worksheets": [
216 "worksheets": [
216 {
217 {
217 "cells": [
218 "cells": [
218 {
219 {
219 "cell_type": "markdown",
220 "cell_type": "markdown",
220 "metadata": {},
221 "metadata": {},
221 "source": "The simplest notebook."
222 "source": "The simplest notebook."
222 },
223 },
223 {
224 {
224 "cell_type": "code",
225 "cell_type": "code",
225 "collapsed": false,
226 "collapsed": false,
226 "input": "print \"Hello, IPython\"",
227 "input": "print \"Hello, IPython\"",
227 "language": "python",
228 "language": "python",
228 "metadata": {},
229 "metadata": {},
229 "outputs": [
230 "outputs": [
230 {
231 {
231 "output_type": "stream",
232 "output_type": "stream",
232 "stream": "stdout",
233 "stream": "stdout",
233 "text": "Hello, IPython\n"
234 "text": "Hello, IPython\n"
234 }
235 }
235 ],
236 ],
236 "prompt_number": 1
237 "prompt_number": 1
237 }
238 }
238 ],
239 ],
239 "metadata": {}
240 "metadata": {}
240 }
241 }
241 ]
242 ]
242 }
243 }
243
244
244
245
245 The corresponding Python script is::
246 The corresponding Python script is::
246
247
247 # -*- coding: utf-8 -*-
248 # -*- coding: utf-8 -*-
248 # <nbformat>3.0</nbformat>
249 # <nbformat>3.0</nbformat>
249
250
250 # <markdowncell>
251 # <markdowncell>
251
252
252 # The simplest notebook.
253 # The simplest notebook.
253
254
254 # <codecell>
255 # <codecell>
255
256
256 print "Hello, IPython"
257 print "Hello, IPython"
257
258
258 Note that indeed the output of the code cell, which is present in the JSON
259 Note that indeed the output of the code cell, which is present in the JSON
259 container, has been removed in the ``.py`` script.
260 container, has been removed in the ``.py`` script.
260
261
@@ -1,564 +1,561 b''
1 .. _htmlnotebook:
1 .. _htmlnotebook:
2
2
3 The IPython Notebook
3 The IPython Notebook
4 ====================
4 ====================
5
5
6 The IPython Notebook is part of the IPython package, which aims to provide a
6 The IPython Notebook is part of the IPython package, which aims to provide a
7 powerful, interactive approach to scientific computation.
7 powerful, interactive approach to scientific computation.
8 The IPython Notebook extends the previous text-console-based approach, and the
8 The IPython Notebook extends the previous text-console-based approach, and the
9 later Qt console, in a qualitatively new diretion, providing a web-based
9 later Qt console, in a qualitatively new diretion, providing a web-based
10 application suitable for capturing the whole scientific computation process.
10 application suitable for capturing the whole scientific computation process.
11
11
12 .. seealso::
12 .. seealso::
13
13
14 :ref:`Installation requirements <installnotebook>` for the Notebook.
14 :ref:`Installation requirements <installnotebook>` for the Notebook.
15
15
16
16
17 .. Basic structure
17 .. Basic structure
18 .. ---------------
18 .. ---------------
19
19
20 Introduction
20 Introduction
21 ------------
21 ------------
22
22
23 The IPython Notebook combines two components:
23 The IPython Notebook combines two components:
24
24
25 * **The IPython Notebook web application**:
25 * **The IPython Notebook web application**:
26
26
27 The *IPython Notebook web app* is a browser-based tool for interactive
27 The *IPython Notebook web app* is a browser-based tool for interactive
28 authoring of literate computations, in which explanatory text,
28 authoring of literate computations, in which explanatory text,
29 mathematics, computations and rich media output may be combined. Input
29 mathematics, computations and rich media output may be combined. Input
30 and output are stored in persistent cells that may be edited in-place.
30 and output are stored in persistent cells that may be edited in-place.
31
31
32 * **Notebook documents**:
32 * **Notebook documents**:
33
33
34 *Notebook documents*, or *notebooks*, are plain text documents which
34 *Notebook documents*, or *notebooks*, are plain text documents which
35 record all inputs and outputs of the computations, interspersed with
35 record all inputs and outputs of the computations, interspersed with
36 text, mathematics and HTML 5 representations of objects, in a literate
36 text, mathematics and HTML 5 representations of objects, in a literate
37 style.
37 style.
38
38
39 Since the similarity in names can lead to some confusion, in this
39 Since the similarity in names can lead to some confusion, in this
40 documentation we will use capitalization of the word "notebook" to
40 documentation we will use capitalization of the word "notebook" to
41 distinguish the *N*otebook app and *n*otebook documents, thinking of the
41 distinguish the Notebook app and notebook documents, thinking of the
42 Notebook app as being a proper noun. We will also always refer to the
42 Notebook app as being a proper noun. We will also always refer to the
43 "Notebook app" when we are referring to the browser-based interface,
43 "Notebook app" when we are referring to the browser-based interface,
44 and usually to "notebook documents", instead of "notebooks", for added
44 and usually to "notebook documents", instead of "notebooks", for added
45 precision.
45 precision.
46
46
47 We refer to the current state of the computational process taking place in the
47 We refer to the current state of the computational process taking place in the
48 Notebook app, i.e. the (numbered) sequence of input and output cells, as the
48 Notebook app, i.e. the (numbered) sequence of input and output cells, as the
49 *notebook space*. Notebook documents provide an *exact*, *one-to-one* record
49 *notebook space*. Notebook documents provide an *exact*, *one-to-one* record
50 of all the content in the notebook space, as a plain text file in JSON format.
50 of all the content in the notebook space, as a plain text file in JSON format.
51 The Notebook app automatically saves, at certain intervals, the contents of
51 The Notebook app automatically saves, at certain intervals, the contents of
52 the notebook space to a notebook document stored on disk, with the same name
52 the notebook space to a notebook document stored on disk, with the same name
53 as the title of the notebook space, and the file extension ``.ipynb``. For
53 as the title of the notebook space, and the file extension ``.ipynb``. For
54 this reason, there is no confusion about using the same word "notebook" for
54 this reason, there is no confusion about using the same word "notebook" for
55 both the notebook space and the corresonding notebook document, since they are
55 both the notebook space and the corresponding notebook document, since they are
56 really one and the same concept (we could say that they are "isomorphic").
56 really one and the same concept (we could say that they are "isomorphic").
57
57
58
58
59 Main features of the IPython Notebook web app
59 Main features of the IPython Notebook web app
60 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
60 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
61
61
62 The main features of the IPython Notebook app include:
62 The main features of the IPython Notebook app include:
63
63
64 * In-browser editing for code, with automatic syntax highlighting and
64 * In-browser editing for code, with automatic syntax highlighting and
65 indentation and tab completion/introspection.
65 indentation and tab completion/introspection.
66
66
67 * Literate combination of code with rich text using the Markdown_ markup
67 * Literate combination of code with rich text using the Markdown_ markup
68 language.
68 language.
69
69
70 * Mathematics is easily included within the Markdown using LaTeX notation, and
70 * Mathematics is easily included within the Markdown using LaTeX notation, and
71 rendered natively by MathJax_.
71 rendered natively by MathJax_.
72
72
73 * Displays rich data representations (e.g. HTML / LaTeX / SVG) as the result
73 * Displays rich data representations (e.g. HTML / LaTeX / SVG) as the result
74 of computations.
74 of computations.
75
75
76 * Publication-quality figures in a range of formats (SVG / PNG), rendered by
76 * Publication-quality figures in a range of formats (SVG / PNG), rendered by
77 the matplotlib_ library, may be included inline and exported.
77 the matplotlib_ library, may be included inline and exported.
78
78
79
79
80 .. _MathJax: http://www.mathjax.org/
80 .. _MathJax: http://www.mathjax.org/
81 .. _matplotlib: http://matplotlib.org/
81 .. _matplotlib: http://matplotlib.org/
82 .. _Markdown: http://daringfireball.net/projects/markdown/syntax
82 .. _Markdown: http://daringfireball.net/projects/markdown/syntax
83
83
84
84
85 Notebook documents
85 Notebook documents
86 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
86 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
87
87
88 Notebook document files are just standard, ASCII-coded text files with the
88 Notebook document files are simple JSON_ files with the
89 extension ``.ipynb``, stored in the working directory on your computer.
89 extension ``.ipynb``.
90 Since the contents of the files are just plain text, they can be easily
90 Since JSON is just plain text, they can be easily version-controlled and shared with colleagues.
91 version-controlled and shared with colleagues.
91 The notebook stores a *complete*, *reproducible*, *one-to-one* copy of the state of the
92
93 Internally, notebook document files use the JSON_ format, allowing them to
94 store a *complete*, *reproducible*, *one-to-one* copy of the state of the
95 computational state as it is inside the Notebook app. All computations
92 computational state as it is inside the Notebook app. All computations
96 carried out, and the corresponding results obtained, can be combined in
93 carried out, and the corresponding results obtained, can be combined in
97 a literate way, interleaving executable code with rich text, mathematics,
94 a literate way, interleaving executable code with rich text, mathematics,
98 and HTML 5 representations of objects.
95 and rich representations of objects.
99
96
100 .. _JSON: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSON
97 .. _JSON: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/JSON
101
98
102 Notebooks may easily be exported to a range of static formats, including
99 Notebooks may easily be exported to a range of static formats, including
103 HTML (for example, for blog posts), PDF and slide shows, via the
100 HTML (for example, for blog posts), PDF and slide shows,
104 newly-included `nbconvert script`_ functionality.
101 via the new nbconvert_ command.
105
102
106 Furthermore, any ``.ipynb`` notebook document with a publicly-available
103 Furthermore, any ``.ipynb`` notebook document available from a public
107 URL can be shared via the `IPython Notebook Viewer`_ service. This service
104 URL can be shared via the `IPython Notebook Viewer <nbviewer>`_ service.
108 loads the notebook document from the URL which will
105 This service loads the notebook document from the URL and will
109 provide it as a static web page. The results may thus be shared with a
106 render it as a static web page. The results may thus be shared with a
110 colleague, or as a public blog post, without other users needing to install
107 colleague, or as a public blog post, without other users needing to install
111 IPython themselves.
108 IPython themselves. NbViewer is simply NbConvert as a simple heroku webservice.
112
109
113 See the :ref:`installation documentation <install_index>` for directions on
110 See the :ref:`installation documentation <install_index>` for directions on
114 how to install the notebook and its dependencies.
111 how to install the notebook and its dependencies.
115
112
116 .. _`Ipython Notebook Viewer`: http://nbviewer.ipython.org
113 .. _nbviewer: http://nbviewer.ipython.org
117
114
118 .. note::
115 .. note::
119
116
120 You can start more than one notebook server at the same time, if you want
117 You can start more than one notebook server at the same time, if you want
121 to work on notebooks in different directories. By default the first
118 to work on notebooks in different directories. By default the first
122 notebook server starts on port 8888, and later notebook servers search for
119 notebook server starts on port 8888, and later notebook servers search for
123 ports near that one. You can also manually specify the port with the
120 ports near that one. You can also manually specify the port with the
124 ``--port`` option.
121 ``--port`` option.
125
122
126
123
127 Basic workflow in the IPython Notebook web app
124 Basic workflow in the IPython Notebook web app
128 ----------------------------------------------
125 ----------------------------------------------
129
126
130 Starting up
127 Starting up
131 ~~~~~~~~~~~~
128 ~~~~~~~~~~~~
132
129
133 You can start running the Notebook web app using the following command::
130 You can start running the Notebook web app using the following command::
134
131
135 $ ipython notebook
132 $ ipython notebook
136
133
137 (Here, and in the sequel, the initial ``$`` represents the shell prompt,
134 (Here, and in the sequel, the initial ``$`` represents the shell prompt,
138 indicating that the command is to be run from the command line in a shell.)
135 indicating that the command is to be run from the command line in a shell.)
139
136
140 The landing page of the IPython Notebook application, the *dashboard*, shows
137 The landing page of the IPython Notebook application, the *dashboard*, shows
141 the notebooks currently available in the *working directory* (the directory
138 the notebooks currently available in the *notebook directory* (By default, the directory
142 from which the notebook was started).
139 from which the notebook was started).
143 You can create new notebooks from the dashboard with the ``New Notebook``
140 You can create new notebooks from the dashboard with the ``New Notebook``
144 button, or open existing ones by clicking on their name.
141 button, or open existing ones by clicking on their name.
145 You can also drag and drop ``.ipynb`` notebooks and standard ``.py`` Python
142 You can also drag and drop ``.ipynb`` notebooks and standard ``.py`` Python
146 source code files into the notebook list area.
143 source code files into the notebook list area.
147
144
148
145
149 You can open an existing notebook directly, without having to go via the
146 You can open an existing notebook directly, without having to go via the
150 dashboard, with:
147 dashboard, with:
151
148
152 ipython notebook my_notebook
149 ipython notebook my_notebook
153
150
154 The `.ipynb` extension is assumed if no extension is given.
151 The `.ipynb` extension is assumed if no extension is given.
155
152
156 The `File | Open...` menu option will open the dashboard in a new browser tab,
153 The `File | Open...` menu option will open the dashboard in a new browser tab,
157 to allow you to select a current notebook
154 to allow you to select a current notebook
158 from the working directory or to create a new notebook
155 from the notebook directory or to create a new notebook.
159
156
160
157
161
158
162 Notebook user interface
159 Notebook user interface
163 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
160 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
164
161
165 When you open a new notebook document in the Notebook, you will be presented
162 When you open a new notebook document in the Notebook, you will be presented
166 with the title associated to the notebook space/document, a *menu bar*, a
163 with the title associated to the notebook space/document, a *menu bar*, a
167 *toolbar* and an empty *input cell*.
164 *toolbar* and an empty *input cell*.
168
165
169 Notebook title
166 Notebook title
170 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
167 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
171 The title of the notebook document that is currently being edited is displayed
168 The title of the notebook document that is currently being edited is displayed
172 at the top of the page, next to the ``IP[y]: Notebook`` logo. This title may
169 at the top of the page, next to the ``IP[y]: Notebook`` logo. This title may
173 be edited directly by clicking on it. The title is reflected in the name of
170 be edited directly by clicking on it. The title is reflected in the name of
174 the ``.ipynb`` notebook document file that is saved.
171 the ``.ipynb`` notebook document file that is saved.
175
172
176 Menu bar
173 Menu bar
177 ^^^^^^^^
174 ^^^^^^^^
178 The menu bar presents different options that may be used to manipulate the way
175 The menu bar presents different options that may be used to manipulate the way
179 the Notebook functions.
176 the Notebook functions.
180
177
181 Toolbar
178 Toolbar
182 ^^^^^^^
179 ^^^^^^^
183 The tool bar gives a quick way of accessing the most-used operations within
180 The tool bar gives a quick way of accessing the most-used operations within
184 the Notebook, by clicking on an icon.
181 the Notebook, by clicking on an icon.
185
182
186
183
187 Creating a new notebook document
184 Creating a new notebook document
188 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
185 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
189
186
190 A new notebook space/document may be created at any time, either from the
187 A new notebook space/document may be created at any time, either from the
191 dashboard, or using the `File | New` menu option from within an active
188 dashboard, or using the `File | New` menu option from within an active
192 notebook. The new notebook is created within the same working directory and
189 notebook. The new notebook is created within the same directory and
193 will open in a new browser tab. It will also be reflected as a new entry in
190 will open in a new browser tab. It will also be reflected as a new entry in
194 the notebook list on the dashboard.
191 the notebook list on the dashboard.
195
192
196
193
197 Structure of a notebook document
194 Structure of a notebook document
198 --------------------------------
195 --------------------------------
199
196
200 Input cells
197 Input cells
201 ~~~~~~~~~~~
198 ~~~~~~~~~~~
202 Input cells are at the core of the functionality of the IPython Notebook.
199 Input cells are at the core of the functionality of the IPython Notebook.
203 They are regions in the document in which you can enter different types of
200 They are regions in the document in which you can enter different types of
204 text and commands. To *execute* or *run* the *current cell*, i.e. the cell
201 text and commands. To *execute* or *run* the *current cell*, i.e. the cell
205 under the cursor, you can use the :kbd:`Shift-Enter` key combination.
202 under the cursor, you can use the :kbd:`Shift-Enter` key combination.
206 This tells the Notebook app to perform the relevant operation for each type of
203 This tells the Notebook app to perform the relevant operation for each type of
207 cell (see below), and then to display the resulting output.
204 cell (see below), and then to display the resulting output.
208
205
209 The notebook consists of a sequence of input cells, labelled ``In[n]``, which
206 The notebook consists of a sequence of input cells, labelled ``In[n]``, which
210 may be executed in a non-linear way, and outputs ``Out[n]``, where ``n`` is a
207 may be executed in a non-linear way, and outputs ``Out[n]``, where ``n`` is a
211 number which denotes the order in which the cells were executed over the
208 number which denotes the order in which the cells were executed over the
212 history of the computational process. The contents of all of these cells are
209 history of the computational process. The contents of all of these cells are
213 accessible as Python variables with the same names, forming a complete record
210 accessible as Python variables with the same names, forming a complete record
214 of the history of the computation.
211 of the history of the computation.
215
212
216
213
217
214
218 Input cell types
215 Input cell types
219 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
216 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
220 Each IPython input cell has a *cell type*, of which there is a restricted
217 Each IPython input cell has a *cell type*, of which there is a restricted
221 number. The type of a cell may be set by using the cell type dropdown on the
218 number. The type of a cell may be set by using the cell type dropdown on the
222 toolbar, or via the following keyboard shortcuts:
219 toolbar, or via the following keyboard shortcuts:
223
220
224 * **code**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m y`
221 * **code**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m y`
225 * **markdown**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m m`
222 * **markdown**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m m`
226 * **raw**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m t`
223 * **raw**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m t`
227 * **heading**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m 1` - :kbd:`Ctrl-m 6`
224 * **heading**: :kbd:`Ctrl-m 1` - :kbd:`Ctrl-m 6`
228
225
229 Upon initial creation, each input cell is by default a code cell.
226 Upon initial creation, each input cell is by default a code cell.
230
227
231
228
232 Code cells
229 Code cells
233 ^^^^^^^^^^
230 ^^^^^^^^^^
234 A *code input cell* allows you to edit code inline within the cell, with full
231 A *code input cell* allows you to edit code inline within the cell, with full
235 syntax highlighting and autocompletion/introspection. By default, the language
232 syntax highlighting and autocompletion/introspection. By default, the language
236 associated to a code cell is Python, but other languages, such as ``julia``
233 associated to a code cell is Python, but other languages, such as ``julia``
237 and ``R``, can be handled using magic commands (see below).
234 and ``R``, can be handled using magic commands (see below).
238
235
239 When a code cell is executed with :kbd:`Shift-Enter`, the code that it
236 When a code cell is executed with :kbd:`Shift-Enter`, the code that it
240 contains is transparently exported and run in that language (with automatic
237 contains is transparently exported and run in that language (with automatic
241 compiling, etc., if necessary). The result that is returned from this
238 compiling, etc., if necessary). The result that is returned from this
242 computation is then displayed in the notebook space as the cell's
239 computation is then displayed in the notebook space as the cell's
243 *output*. If this output is of a textual nature, it is placed into a
240 *output*. If this output is of a textual nature, it is placed into a
244 numbered *output cell*. However, many other possible forms of output are also
241 numbered *output cell*. However, many other possible forms of output are also
245 possible, including ``matplotlib`` figures and HTML tables (as used, for
242 possible, including ``matplotlib`` figures and HTML tables (as used, for
246 example, in the ``pandas`` data analyis package). This is known as IPython's
243 example, in the ``pandas`` data analyis package). This is known as IPython's
247 *rich display* capability.
244 *rich display* capability.
248
245
249
246
250 Markdown cells
247 Markdown cells
251 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
248 ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^
252 You can document the computational process in a literate way, alternating
249 You can document the computational process in a literate way, alternating
253 descriptive text with code, using *rich text*. In IPython this is accomplished
250 descriptive text with code, using *rich text*. In IPython this is accomplished
254 by marking up text with the Markdown language. The corresponding cells are
251 by marking up text with the Markdown language. The corresponding cells are
255 called *Markdown input cells*. The Markdown language provides a simple way to
252 called *Markdown input cells*. The Markdown language provides a simple way to
256 perform this text markup, that is, to specify which parts of the text should
253 perform this text markup, that is, to specify which parts of the text should
257 be emphasized (italics), bold, form lists, etc.
254 be emphasized (italics), bold, form lists, etc.
258
255
259
256
260 When a Markdown input cell is executed, the Markdown code is converted into
257 When a Markdown input cell is executed, the Markdown code is converted into
261 the corresponding formatted rich text. This output then *replaces* the
258 the corresponding formatted rich text. This output then *replaces* the
262 original Markdown input cell, leaving just the visually-significant marked up
259 original Markdown input cell, leaving just the visually-significant marked up
263 rich text. Markdown allows arbitrary HTML code for formatting.
260 rich text. Markdown allows arbitrary HTML code for formatting.
264
261
265 Within Markdown cells, you can also include *mathematics* in a straightforward
262 Within Markdown cells, you can also include *mathematics* in a straightforward
266 way, using standard LaTeX notation: ``$...$`` for inline mathematics and
263 way, using standard LaTeX notation: ``$...$`` for inline mathematics and
267 ``$$...$$`` for displayed mathematics. When the Markdown cell is executed,
264 ``$$...$$`` for displayed mathematics. When the Markdown cell is executed,
268 the LaTeX portions are automatically rendered in the HTML output as equations
265 the LaTeX portions are automatically rendered in the HTML output as equations
269 with high quality typography. This is made possible by MathJax_, which
266 with high quality typography. This is made possible by MathJax_, which
270 supports a `large subset`_ of LaTeX functionality
267 supports a `large subset <mathjax_tex>`_ of LaTeX functionality
271
268
272 .. _`large subset`: http://docs.mathjax.org/en/latest/tex.html
269 .. _mathjax_tex: http://docs.mathjax.org/en/latest/tex.html
273
270
274 Standard mathematics environments defined by LaTeX and AMS-LaTeX (the
271 Standard mathematics environments defined by LaTeX and AMS-LaTeX (the
275 `amsmath` package) also work, such as
272 `amsmath` package) also work, such as
276 ``\begin{equation}...\end{equation}``, and ``\begin{align}...\end{align}``.
273 ``\begin{equation}...\end{equation}``, and ``\begin{align}...\end{align}``.
277 New LaTeX macros may be defined using standard methods,
274 New LaTeX macros may be defined using standard methods,
278 such as ``\newcommand``, by placing them anywhere *between math delimiters* in
275 such as ``\newcommand``, by placing them anywhere *between math delimiters* in
279 a Markdown cell. These definitions are then available throughout the rest of
276 a Markdown cell. These definitions are then available throughout the rest of
280 the IPython session. (Note, however, that more care must be taken when using
277 the IPython session. (Note, however, that more care must be taken when using
281 the `nbconvert script`_ to output to LaTeX).
278 nbconvert_ to output to LaTeX).
282
279
283 Raw input cells
280 Raw input cells
284 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
281 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
285 *Raw* input cells provide a place in which you can put additional information
282
286 which you do not want to evaluated by the Notebook. This can be used, for
283 *Raw* input cells provide a place in which you can write *output* directly.
287 example, to include extra information that is needed when exporting to a
284 Raw cells are not evaluated by the Notebook, and have no output.
288 certain format. The output after evaluating a raw cell is just a verbatim copy
285 When passed through nbconvert, Raw cells arrive in the destination format unmodified,
289 of the input.
286 allowing you to type full latex into a raw cell, which will only be rendered
287 by latex after conversion by nbconvert.
290
288
291 Heading cells
289 Heading cells
292 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
290 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~
291
293 You can provide a conceptual structure for your computational document as a
292 You can provide a conceptual structure for your computational document as a
294 whole using different levels of headings; there are 6 levels available, from
293 whole using different levels of headings; there are 6 levels available, from
295 level 1 (top level) down to level 6 (paragraph). These can be used later for
294 level 1 (top level) down to level 6 (paragraph). These can be used later for
296 constructing tables of contents, etc.
295 constructing tables of contents, etc.
297
296
298 As with Markdown cells, a heading input cell is replaced by a rich text
297 As with Markdown cells, a heading input cell is replaced by a rich text
299 rendering of the heading when the cell is executed.
298 rendering of the heading when the cell is executed.
300
299
301
300
302 Basic workflow
301 Basic workflow
303 --------------
302 --------------
303
304 The normal workflow in a notebook is, then, quite similar to a standard
304 The normal workflow in a notebook is, then, quite similar to a standard
305 IPython session, with the difference that you can edit cells in-place multiple
305 IPython session, with the difference that you can edit cells in-place multiple
306 times until you obtain the desired results, rather than having to
306 times until you obtain the desired results, rather than having to
307 rerun separate scripts with the ``%run`` magic command. (Magic commands do,
307 rerun separate scripts with the ``%run`` magic command. (Magic commands do,
308 however, also work in the notebook; see below).
308 however, also work in the notebook; see below).
309
309
310 Typically, you will work on a computational problem in pieces, organizing
310 Typically, you will work on a computational problem in pieces, organizing
311 related ideas into cells and moving forward once previous parts work
311 related ideas into cells and moving forward once previous parts work
312 correctly. This is much more convenient for interactive exploration than
312 correctly. This is much more convenient for interactive exploration than
313 breaking up a computation into scripts that must be executed together, as was
313 breaking up a computation into scripts that must be executed together, as was
314 previously necessary, especially if parts of them take a long time to run
314 previously necessary, especially if parts of them take a long time to run
315
315
316 The only significant limitation that the Notebook currently has, compared to
316 The only significant limitation that the Notebook currently has, compared to
317 the Qt console, is that it cannot run any code that expects input from the
317 the Qt console, is that it cannot run any code that expects input from the
318 kernel (such as scripts that call :func:`raw_input`). Very importantly, this
318 kernel (such as scripts that call :func:`raw_input`). Very importantly, this
319 means that the ``%debug`` magic does *not* currently work in the notebook!
319 means that the ``%debug`` magic does *not* currently work in the notebook!
320
320
321 This limitation will be overcome in the future, but in the meantime, there is
321 This limitation will be overcome in the future, but in the meantime, there is
322 a simple solution for debugging: you can attach a Qt console to your existing
322 a simple solution for debugging: you can attach a Qt console to your existing
323 notebook kernel, and run ``%debug`` from the Qt console.
323 notebook kernel, and run ``%debug`` from the Qt console.
324 If your notebook is running on a local computer (i.e. if you are accessing it
324 If your notebook is running on a local computer (i.e. if you are accessing it
325 via your localhost address at ``127.0.0.1``), then you can just type
325 via your localhost address at ``127.0.0.1``), then you can just type
326 ``%qtconsole`` in the notebook and a Qt console will open up, connected to
326 ``%qtconsole`` in the notebook and a Qt console will open up, connected to
327 that same kernel.
327 that same kernel.
328
328
329 At certain moments, it may be necessary to interrupt a calculation which is
329 At certain moments, it may be necessary to interrupt a calculation which is
330 taking too long to complete. This may be done with the ``Kernel | Interrupt``
330 taking too long to complete. This may be done with the ``Kernel | Interrupt``
331 menu option, or the :kbd:``Ctrl-i`` keyboard shortcut.
331 menu option, or the :kbd:``Ctrl-i`` keyboard shortcut.
332 Similarly, it may be necessary or desirable to restart the whole computational
332 Similarly, it may be necessary or desirable to restart the whole computational
333 process, with the ``Kernel | Restart`` menu option or :kbd:``Ctrl-.``
333 process, with the ``Kernel | Restart`` menu option or :kbd:``Ctrl-.``
334 shortcut. This gives an equivalent state to loading the notebook document
334 shortcut. This gives an equivalent state to loading the notebook document
335 afresh.
335 afresh.
336
336
337
337
338 .. warning::
338 .. warning::
339
339
340 While in simple cases you can "roundtrip" a notebook to Python, edit the
340 While in simple cases you can "roundtrip" a notebook to Python, edit the
341 Python file, and then import it back without loss of main content, this is
341 Python file, and then import it back without loss of main content, this is
342 in general *not guaranteed to work*. First, there is extra metadata
342 in general *not guaranteed to work*. First, there is extra metadata
343 saved in the notebook that may not be saved to the ``.py`` format. And as
343 saved in the notebook that may not be saved to the ``.py`` format. And as
344 the notebook format evolves in complexity, there will be attributes of the
344 the notebook format evolves in complexity, there will be attributes of the
345 notebook that will not survive a roundtrip through the Python form. You
345 notebook that will not survive a roundtrip through the Python form. You
346 should think of the Python format as a way to output a script version of a
346 should think of the Python format as a way to output a script version of a
347 notebook and the import capabilities as a way to load existing code to get
347 notebook and the import capabilities as a way to load existing code to get
348 a notebook started. But the Python version is *not* an alternate notebook
348 a notebook started. But the Python version is *not* an alternate notebook
349 format.
349 format.
350
350
351
351
352 Keyboard shortcuts
352 Keyboard shortcuts
353 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
353 ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
354 All actions in the notebook can be achieved with the mouse, but keyboard
354 All actions in the notebook can be achieved with the mouse, but keyboard
355 shortcuts are also available for the most common ones, so that productive use
355 shortcuts are also available for the most common ones, so that productive use
356 of the notebook can be achieved with minimal mouse usage. The main shortcuts
356 of the notebook can be achieved with minimal mouse usage. The main shortcuts
357 to remember are the following:
357 to remember are the following:
358
358
359 * :kbd:`Shift-Enter`:
359 * :kbd:`Shift-Enter`:
360
360
361 Execute the current cell, show output (if any), and jump to the next cell
361 Execute the current cell, show output (if any), and jump to the next cell
362 below. If :kbd:`Shift-Enter` is invoked on the last input cell, a new code
362 below. If :kbd:`Shift-Enter` is invoked on the last input cell, a new code
363 cell will also be created. Note that in the notebook, typing :kbd:`Enter`
363 cell will also be created. Note that in the notebook, typing :kbd:`Enter`
364 on its own *never* forces execution, but rather just inserts a new line in
364 on its own *never* forces execution, but rather just inserts a new line in
365 the current input cell. In the Notebook it is thus always necessary to use
365 the current input cell. In the Notebook it is thus always necessary to use
366 :kbd:`Shift-Enter` to execute the cell (or use the ``Cell | Run`` menu
366 :kbd:`Shift-Enter` to execute the cell (or use the ``Cell | Run`` menu
367 item).
367 item).
368
368
369 * :kbd:`Ctrl-Enter`:
369 * :kbd:`Ctrl-Enter`:
370 Execute the current cell as if it were in "terminal mode", where any
370 Execute the current cell as if it were in "terminal mode", where any
371 output is shown, but the cursor *remains* in the current cell. This is
371 output is shown, but the cursor *remains* in the current cell. This is
372 convenient for doing quick experiments in place, or for querying things
372 convenient for doing quick experiments in place, or for querying things
373 like filesystem content, without needing to create additional cells that
373 like filesystem content, without needing to create additional cells that
374 you may not want to be saved in the notebook.
374 you may not want to be saved in the notebook.
375
375
376 * :kbd:`Alt-Enter`:
376 * :kbd:`Alt-Enter`:
377 Executes the current cell, shows the output, and inserts a *new* input
377 Executes the current cell, shows the output, and inserts a *new* input
378 cell between the current cell and the adjacent cell (if one exists). This
378 cell between the current cell and the adjacent cell (if one exists). This
379 is thus a shortcut for the sequence :kbd:`Shift-Enter`, :kbd:`Ctrl-m a`.
379 is thus a shortcut for the sequence :kbd:`Shift-Enter`, :kbd:`Ctrl-m a`.
380 (:kbd:`Ctrl-m a` adds a new cell above the current one.)
380 (:kbd:`Ctrl-m a` adds a new cell above the current one.)
381
381
382 * :kbd:`Ctrl-m`:
382 * :kbd:`Ctrl-m`:
383 This is the prefix for *all* other shortcuts, which consist of :kbd:`Ctrl-m`
383 This is the prefix for *all* other shortcuts, which consist of :kbd:`Ctrl-m`
384 followed by a single letter or character. For example, if you type
384 followed by a single letter or character. For example, if you type
385 :kbd:`Ctrl-m h` (that is, the sole letter :kbd:`h` after :kbd:`Ctrl-m`),
385 :kbd:`Ctrl-m h` (that is, the sole letter :kbd:`h` after :kbd:`Ctrl-m`),
386 IPython will show you all the available keyboard shortcuts.
386 IPython will show you all the available keyboard shortcuts.
387
387
388
388
389 Magic commands
389 Magic commands
390 --------------
390 --------------
391 Magic commands, or *magics*, are commands for controlling IPython itself.
391 Magic commands, or *magics*, are commands for controlling IPython itself.
392 They all begin with ``%`` and are entered into code input cells; the code
392 They all begin with ``%`` and are entered into code input cells; the code
393 cells are executed as usual with :kbd:`Shift-Enter`.
393 cells are executed as usual with :kbd:`Shift-Enter`.
394
394
395 The magic commands call special functions defined by IPython which manipulate
395 The magic commands call special functions defined by IPython which manipulate
396 the computational state in certain ways.
396 the computational state in certain ways.
397
397
398 There are two types of magics:
398 There are two types of magics:
399
399
400 - **line magics**:
400 - **line magics**:
401
401
402 These begin with a single ``%`` and take as arguments the rest of the
402 These begin with a single ``%`` and take as arguments the rest of the
403 *same line* of the code cell. Any other lines of the code cell are
403 *same line* of the code cell. Any other lines of the code cell are
404 treated as if they were part of a standard code cell.
404 treated as if they were part of a standard code cell.
405
405
406 - **cell magics**:
406 - **cell magics**:
407
407
408 These begin with ``%%`` and operate on the *entire* remaining contents
408 These begin with ``%%`` and operate on the *entire* remaining contents
409 of the code cell.
409 of the code cell.
410
410
411 Line magics
411 Line magics
412 ~~~~~~~~~~~
412 ~~~~~~~~~~~
413 Some of the available line magics are the following:
413 Some of the available line magics are the following:
414
414
415 * ``%load filename``:
415 * ``%load filename``:
416
416
417 Loads the contents of the file ``filename`` into a new code cell. This
417 Loads the contents of the file ``filename`` into a new code cell. This
418 can be a URL for a remote file.
418 can be a URL for a remote file.
419
419
420 * ``%timeit code``:
420 * ``%timeit code``:
421
421
422 An easy way to time how long the single line of code ``code`` takes to
422 An easy way to time how long the single line of code ``code`` takes to
423 run
423 run
424
424
425 * ``%config``:
425 * ``%config``:
426
426
427 Configuration of the IPython Notebook
427 Configuration of the IPython Notebook
428
428
429 * ``%lsmagic``:
429 * ``%lsmagic``:
430
430
431 Provides a list of all available magic commands
431 Provides a list of all available magic commands
432
432
433 Cell magics
433 Cell magics
434 ~~~~~~~~~~~
434 ~~~~~~~~~~~
435
435
436 * ``%%latex``:
436 * ``%%latex``:
437
437
438 Renders the entire contents of the cell in LaTeX, without needing to use
438 Renders the entire contents of the cell in LaTeX, without needing to use
439 explicit LaTeX delimiters.
439 explicit LaTeX delimiters.
440
440
441 * ``%%bash``:
441 * ``%%bash``:
442
442
443 The code cell is executed by sending it to be executed by ``bash``. The
443 The code cell is executed by sending it to be executed by ``bash``. The
444 output of the ``bash`` commands is captured and displayed in the
444 output of the ``bash`` commands is captured and displayed in the
445 notebook.
445 notebook.
446
446
447 * ``%%file filename``:
447 * ``%%file filename``:
448
448
449 Writes the contents of the cell to the file ``filename``.
449 Writes the contents of the cell to the file ``filename``.
450 **Caution**: The file is over-written without warning!
450 **Caution**: The file is over-written without warning!
451
451
452 * ``%%R``:
452 * ``%%R``:
453
453
454 Execute the contents of the cell using the R language.
454 Execute the contents of the cell using the R language.
455
455
456 * ``%%timeit``:
456 * ``%%timeit``:
457
457
458 Version of ``%timeit`` which times the entire block of code in the
458 Version of ``%timeit`` which times the entire block of code in the
459 current code cell.
459 current code cell.
460
460
461
461
462
462
463 Several of the cell magics provide functionality to manipulate the filesystem
463 Several of the cell magics provide functionality to manipulate the filesystem
464 of a remote server to which you otherwise do not have access.
464 of a remote server to which you otherwise do not have access.
465
465
466
466
467 Plotting
467 Plotting
468 --------
468 --------
469 One major feature of the Notebook is the ability to interact with
469 One major feature of the Notebook is the ability to interact with
470 plots that are the output of running code cells. IPython is designed to work
470 plots that are the output of running code cells. IPython is designed to work
471 seamlessly with the ``matplotlib`` plotting library to provide this
471 seamlessly with the ``matplotlib`` plotting library to provide this
472 functionality.
472 functionality.
473
473
474 To set this up, before any plotting is performed you must execute the
474 To set this up, before any plotting is performed you must execute the
475 ``%matplotlib`` magic command. This performs the necessary behind-the-scenes
475 ``%matplotlib`` magic command. This performs the necessary behind-the-scenes
476 setup for IPython to work correctly hand in hand with ``matplotlib``; it does
476 setup for IPython to work correctly hand in hand with ``matplotlib``; it does
477 *not*, however, actually execute any Python ``import`` commands, that is, no
477 *not*, however, actually execute any Python ``import`` commands, that is, no
478 names are added to the namespace.
478 names are added to the namespace.
479
479
480 For more agile *interactive* use of the notebook space, an alternative magic,
480 For more agile *interactive* use of the notebook space, an alternative magic,
481 ``%pylab``, is provided. This does the same work as the ``%matplotlib`` magic,
481 ``%pylab``, is provided. This does the same work as the ``%matplotlib`` magic,
482 but *in addition* it automatically executes a standard sequence of ``import``
482 but *in addition* it automatically executes a standard sequence of ``import``
483 statements required to work with the ``%matplotlib`` library, importing the
483 statements required to work with the ``%matplotlib`` library, importing the
484 following names into the namespace:
484 following names into the namespace:
485
485
486 ``numpy`` as ``np``; ``matplotlib.pyplot`` as ``plt``;
486 ``numpy`` as ``np``; ``matplotlib.pyplot`` as ``plt``;
487 ``matplotlib``, ``pylab`` and ``mlab`` from ``matplotlib``; and *all names*
487 ``matplotlib``, ``pylab`` and ``mlab`` from ``matplotlib``; and *all names*
488 from within ``numpy`` and ``pylab``.
488 from within ``numpy`` and ``pylab``.
489
489
490 However, the use of ``%pylab`` is discouraged, since names coming from
490 However, the use of ``%pylab`` is discouraged, since names coming from
491 different packages may collide. In general, the use of ``from package import
491 different packages may collide. In general, the use of ``from package import
492 *`` is discouraged. A better option is then::
492 *`` is discouraged. A better option is then::
493
493
494 %pylab --no-import-all
494 %pylab --no-import-all
495
495
496 which imports the names listed above, but does *not* perform this
496 which imports the names listed above, but does *not* perform this
497 ``import *`` imports.
497 ``import *`` imports.
498
498
499 If the ``%matplotlib`` or ``%pylab` magics are called without an argument, the
499 If the ``%matplotlib`` or ``%pylab` magics are called without an argument, the
500 output of a plotting command is displayed using the default ``matplotlib``
500 output of a plotting command is displayed using the default ``matplotlib``
501 backend in a separate window. Alternatively, the backend can be explicitly
501 backend in a separate window. Alternatively, the backend can be explicitly
502 requested using, for example::
502 requested using, for example::
503
503
504 %matplotlib gtk
504 %matplotlib gtk
505
505
506 A particularly interesting backend is the ``inline`` backend.
506 A particularly interesting backend is the ``inline`` backend.
507 This is applicable only for the IPython Notebook and the IPython Qtconsole.
507 This is applicable only for the IPython Notebook and the IPython Qtconsole.
508 It can be invoked as follows::
508 It can be invoked as follows::
509
509
510 %matplotlib inline
510 %matplotlib inline
511
511
512 With this backend, output of plotting commands is displayed *inline* within
512 With this backend, output of plotting commands is displayed *inline* within
513 the notebook format, directly below the input cell that produced it. The
513 the notebook format, directly below the input cell that produced it. The
514 resulting plots will then also be stored in the notebook document. This
514 resulting plots will then also be stored in the notebook document. This
515 provides a key part of the functionality for reproducibility_ that the IPython
515 provides a key part of the functionality for reproducibility_ that the IPython
516 Notebook provides.
516 Notebook provides.
517
517
518 .. _reproducibility: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reproducibility
518 .. _reproducibility: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reproducibility
519
519
520
520
521
521
522 Configuring the IPython Notebook
522 Configuring the IPython Notebook
523 --------------------------------
523 --------------------------------
524 The IPython Notebook can be run with a variety of command line arguments.
524 The IPython Notebook can be run with a variety of command line arguments.
525 To see a list of available options enter::
525 To see a list of available options enter::
526
526
527 $ ipython notebook --help
527 $ ipython notebook --help
528
528
529 Defaults for these options can also be set by creating a file named
529 Defaults for these options can also be set by creating a file named
530 ``ipython_notebook_config.py`` in your IPython *profile folder*. The profile
530 ``ipython_notebook_config.py`` in your IPython *profile folder*. The profile
531 folder is a subfolder of your IPython directory; to find out where it is
531 folder is a subfolder of your IPython directory; to find out where it is
532 located, run::
532 located, run::
533
533
534 $ ipython locate
534 $ ipython locate
535
535
536 To create a new set of default configuration files, with lots of information
536 To create a new set of default configuration files, with lots of information
537 on available options, use::
537 on available options, use::
538
538
539 $ ipython profile create
539 $ ipython profile create
540
540
541 .. seealso:
541 .. seealso:
542
542
543 :ref:`config_overview`, in particular :ref:`Profiles`.
543 :ref:`config_overview`, in particular :ref:`Profiles`.
544
544
545
545
546 Importing `.py` files
546 Importing `.py` files
547 ----------------------
547 ----------------------
548
548
549
549
550 ``.py`` files will be imported into the IPython Notebook as a notebook with
550 ``.py`` files will be imported into the IPython Notebook as a notebook with
551 the same basename, but an ``.ipynb`` extension, located in the working
551 the same basename, but an ``.ipynb`` extension, located in the notebook
552 directory. The notebook created will have just one cell, which will contain
552 directory. The notebook created will have just one cell, which will contain
553 all the code in the ``.py`` file. You can later manually partition this into
553 all the code in the ``.py`` file. You can later manually partition this into
554 individual cells using the ``Edit | Split Cell`` menu option, or the
554 individual cells using the ``Edit | Split Cell`` menu option, or the
555 :kbd:`Ctrl-m -` keyboard shortcut.
555 :kbd:`Ctrl-m -` keyboard shortcut.
556
556
557 .. Alternatively, prior to importing the ``.py``, you can manually add ``# <
557 .. Alternatively, prior to importing the ``.py``, you can manually add ``# <
558 nbformat>2</nbformat>`` at the start of the file, and then add separators for
558 nbformat>2</nbformat>`` at the start of the file, and then add separators for
559 text and code cells, to get a cleaner import with the file already broken into
559 text and code cells, to get a cleaner import with the file already broken into
560 individual cells.
560 individual cells.
561
561
562
563
564 .. _Markdown: http://daringfireball.net/projects/markdown/basics
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