How To Install PyCharm on Linux Mint 22

In this tutorial, we will show you how to install PyCharm on Linux Mint 22. PyCharm is a powerful integrated development environment (IDE) for Python programmers, offering a wide range of features to enhance productivity and streamline the coding process. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the process of installing PyCharm on Linux Mint 22, exploring various installation methods and providing troubleshooting tips to ensure a smooth setup.

Introduction

Linux Mint 22, codenamed “Wilma,” is the latest long-term support (LTS) release of this popular Ubuntu-based distribution. As a Python developer, having a robust IDE like PyCharm can significantly improve your workflow. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced programmer, PyCharm offers tools and features that cater to all skill levels.

Prerequisites

Before we dive into the installation process, let’s ensure your system meets the necessary requirements:

• Linux Mint 22 “Wilma” installed and updated
• At least 4GB of RAM (8GB recommended for optimal performance)
• 2GB of free disk space
• 1024×768 minimum screen resolution
• An active internet connection
• Basic familiarity with terminal commands

Installation Methods Overview

There are several ways to install PyCharm on Linux Mint 22. We’ll cover three primary methods:

Method 1: Installing PyCharm via Snap

Snap packages offer a convenient way to install and manage applications on Linux systems. Here’s how to install PyCharm using Snap:

Step 1: Update System Packages

Open a terminal and run the following commands:

sudo apt update
sudo apt upgrade

Step 2: Install Snap Support

Linux Mint doesn’t come with Snap pre-installed. To add Snap support, execute:

sudo rm /etc/apt/preferences.d/nosnap.pref
sudo apt update
sudo apt install snapd

Step 3: Install PyCharm

Choose the edition you want to install:

sudo snap install pycharm-community --classic
# or
sudo snap install pycharm-professional --classic
# or
sudo snap install pycharm-educational --classic

Step 4: Verify Installation

Launch PyCharm by typing the appropriate command in the terminal:

pycharm-community
# or
pycharm-professional
# or
pycharm-educational

Troubleshooting Snap Installation

If you encounter issues with Snap installation:

• Ensure your system is up-to-date
• Check if Snap daemon is running: sudo systemctl status snapd
• Restart the Snap service: sudo systemctl restart snapd

Method 2: Installing PyCharm via APT PPA

For users who prefer traditional package management, installing PyCharm via APT PPA is an excellent option.

Step 1: Add PyCharm Repository

First, add the JetBrains repository:

sudo add-apt-repository ppa:jetbrains-ppa/stable
sudo apt update

Step 2: Install Dependencies

Ensure all necessary dependencies are installed:

sudo apt install software-properties-common apt-transport-https wget

Step 3: Install PyCharm

Choose the edition you want to install:

sudo apt install pycharm-community
# or
sudo apt install pycharm-professional
# or
sudo apt install pycharm-edu

Step 4: Launch PyCharm

You can now launch PyCharm from the application menu or by typing pycharm in the terminal.

Troubleshooting APT PPA Installation

If you face issues with APT PPA installation:

• Check if the PPA was added correctly: ls /etc/apt/sources.list.d/
• Ensure your system can reach the PPA servers
• Try updating package lists: sudo apt update

Method 3: Installing PyCharm via Flatpak

Flatpak offers a sandboxed environment for applications, which can be beneficial for system security and stability.

Step 1: Set Up Flatpak

Install Flatpak if it’s not already on your system:

sudo apt install flatpak

Step 2: Add Flathub Repository

Add the Flathub repository, which hosts many Flatpak applications:

flatpak remote-add --if-not-exists flathub https://flathub.org/repo/flathub.flatpakrepo

Step 3: Install PyCharm

Install your preferred PyCharm edition:

flatpak install flathub com.jetbrains.PyCharm-Community
# or
flatpak install flathub com.jetbrains.PyCharm-Professional

Step 4: Launch PyCharm

You can now launch PyCharm from the application menu or by using the following command:

flatpak run com.jetbrains.PyCharm-Community
# or
flatpak run com.jetbrains.PyCharm-Professional

Troubleshooting Flatpak Installation

If you encounter issues with Flatpak installation:

• Ensure Flatpak is properly installed: flatpak --version
• Check if the Flathub repository is added: flatpak remotes
• Try updating Flatpak: flatpak update

First-Time Setup and Configuration

After successfully installing PyCharm, you’ll want to configure it for optimal use:

Initial Launch Process

1. Accept the JetBrains privacy policy and user agreement
2. Choose whether to share usage statistics (optional)
3. Select your preferred UI theme (Darcula or Light)

Creating a Desktop Entry

To create a desktop shortcut:

1. Open PyCharm
2. Go to Tools > Create Desktop Entry
3. Choose whether to create for all users or just yourself

Plugin Recommendations

Consider installing these useful plugins:

• Pylint (code analysis)
• GitToolBox (enhanced Git integration)
• Rainbow Brackets (improved code readability)

Troubleshooting Common Issues

Even with a smooth installation, you might encounter some issues. Here are solutions to common problems:

Missing Dependencies

If PyCharm fails to start due to missing dependencies, try installing them manually:

sudo apt install python3-pip python3-dev

Permission Problems

If you face permission issues, ensure your user has the necessary rights:

sudo chown -R $USER:$USER ~/.PyCharm*

Python Interpreter Issues

If PyCharm can’t find your Python interpreter:

1. Go to File > Settings > Project > Python Interpreter
2. Click on the gear icon and select “Add”
3. Choose “System Interpreter” and locate your Python executable

Tips and Best Practices

To get the most out of PyCharm on Linux Mint 22:

Performance Optimization

• Increase IDE heap size in Help > Change Memory Settings
• Disable unused plugins to reduce memory usage

Keyboard Shortcuts

Learn these essential shortcuts:

• Ctrl + Space: Code completion
• Ctrl + Q: Quick documentation
• Shift + F6: Rename

Version Control Integration

Set up Git integration for efficient project management:

1. Go to File > Settings > Version Control > Git
2. Set the path to your Git executable
3. Test the connection to ensure it’s working

Congratulations! You have successfully installed PyCharm. Thanks for using this tutorial for installing the latest version of PyCharm on the Linux Mint 22 system. For additional help or useful information, we recommend you check the official PyCharm website.