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Anaconda and Python (Open Source, Freely Available)

Python is an open-source, object-oriented programming language, particularly well-suited for scientific computing because of its extensive ecosystem of scientific libraries and environments. For more information, see the Python FAQ page and the Python Numeric and Scientific Wiki.

Anaconda is free Python distribution, including over 195 of the most popular Python packages for science, math, and data analysis.  Anaconda includes Python 2.7/Python 3.4 and cross-platform Python packages, as well as tools for integration with Excel. For more information, see the Anaconda homepage.

Python and Anaconda support a variety of processes in the scientific data workflow, from getting data, manipulating and processing data, and visualizing and communicating research results.  Because Python can be used in a wide variety of applications, even beyond scientific computing, users can avoid having to learn new software or programming languages when new data analysis needs arise. Python's open source availability enhances research reproducibility and enables users to connect with a large community of fellow users.

Learning About Anaconda and Python