SQLite and Setup

Now it’s time to create your first real database.

You will create a database file and connect to it using Python.

What is SQLite?

SQLite is a simple database that stores data in a file.

You don’t need to install anything.

It runs locally
It creates a .db file
It is perfect for beginners

What You Will Do

You will:

Create a database file
Connect to it using Python
Verify that it works

Step 1: Create a New File

In your project folder, create a file:

code

database.py

Step 2: Add This Code

python

import sqlite3

# connect to database (this creates the file if it doesn't exist)
conn = sqlite3.connect("database.db")

print("Database created and connected successfully")

conn.close()

Step 3: Run the File

In your terminal:

bash

python database.py

What Just Happened?

Python created a file called database.db
This file is your database
You successfully connected to it

Check your folder—you should now see:

code

database.db

Important Concept

Your database is now:

A real file
Stored on your computer
Ready to store data

Why This Matters

Before:

Your app forgot everything

Now:

You have a place to store data

This is the first step toward persistence.

Common Mistakes

❌ Forgetting to run the file
❌ Looking for the .db file before running
❌ Typos in the filename

Summary

SQLite creates a database file
You connected using Python
Your app now has storage

In the next lesson, you will create your first table.