How to use the command 'streamlit' (with examples)

Streamlit is an open-source Python framework designed to simplify the process of creating interactive, data-driven web applications. By allowing developers to seamlessly transform their standalone scripts into shareable web apps, Streamlit bridges the gap between data analysis and data visualization, all within a Python environment. With a minimalistic, easy-to-understand syntax, Streamlit enables users to focus more on data design and less on web app complexity.

Use case 1: Checking for Streamlit Installation

Code:

streamlit hello

Motivation for using this example:
When you start working with Streamlit, it’s crucial to confirm that it is installed correctly on your system. Running the streamlit hello command helps ensure that Streamlit is both installed and fully operational. This simple introductory demo to Streamlit provides a baseline check that everything is ready for your projects.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• streamlit: This starts the Streamlit command-line interface.
• hello: This is a special sub-command in Streamlit that launches a demonstration app built by the Streamlit team. The purpose is to showcase some fundamental features of Streamlit out-of-the-box.

Example output:
When executed, this command opens a browser window displaying a welcome demo app. The app demonstrates several capability showcases like plotting graphs, displaying dataframes, and interactive widgets, confirming that Streamlit is well-rooted on your system.

Use case 2: Running a Streamlit Application

Code:

streamlit run project_name

Motivation for using this example:
The core functionality of Streamlit is to transform Python scripts into web apps, and to do this, you need to run your specific application. The streamlit run project_name command is fundamental as it takes your Python script and renders it as a web app interface. By doing so, it enables you to share your findings or interactive tools with others seamlessly.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• streamlit: This initializes the Streamlit environment.
• run: A sub-command used to execute a Python script through Streamlit.
• project_name: This is a placeholder and should be replaced with the name of your Python script. It tells Streamlit exactly which script you are requesting it to execute and display as an app.

Example output:
Executing this command will initiate a local web server and open the designated web app in your default browser. The app will dynamically reflect the layout and interactive features defined in your Python script.

Use case 3: Displaying Help Documentation

Code:

streamlit --help

Motivation for using this example:
Understanding available commands and configurations is crucial for productive Streamlit usage. The streamlit --help command offers quick access to the Streamlit command-line options, making it easier for users to leverage full functionality without needless trial and error or searching through documentation.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• streamlit: This engages the Streamlit command-line utilities.
• --help: This flag brings up a list of all possible commands and options available in Streamlit, providing brief descriptions for each.

Example output:
This command results in a detailed list displayed in the terminal, including common commands, such as run and config, and all available flags, with hints on their usage. This helps orientate new users while providing quick references for more experienced practitioners.

Use case 4: Displaying Version Information

Code:

streamlit --version

Motivation for using this example:
Knowing which version of a tool you’re working with is necessary for debugging, gaining support, and ensuring compatibility with other technologies or libraries. By checking the installed Streamlit version using streamlit --version, developers can effectively troubleshoot problems and access pertinent resources suited to their version.

Explanation for every argument given in the command:

• streamlit: This is the command interface for Streamlit.
• --version: This option outputs the currently installed version of Streamlit.

Example output:
The CLI will return something like:

Streamlit, version 1.4.0

This simple statement tells you exactly which version number of Streamlit is installed, helping with compatibility checks and confirmations during collaborative work or troubleshooting.

Conclusion:

Streamlit turns simple Python scripts into easily deployed, interactive web apps with minimal effort and configuration. Each command outlined above serves a foundational purpose, from checking installations and running your applications to referencing help and version information. Together, these commands allow users to weave the full benefits of Streamlit in a seamless and efficient manner, making data visualization and application sharing simple and intuitive.