How to Schedule Python Scripts Automatically (Step-by-Step Guide for Daily Automation)

Learn how to schedule Python scripts to run automatically on Windows, macOS, or Linux using Task Scheduler or cron and master daily automation to save time and boost productivity.

There’s something really satisfying about writing a Python script that runs on its own. You set it up once, and from then on, it just works. No clicks, no reminders, no extra steps.

It quietly does its job while you sleep, whether that’s cleaning up data, sending daily emails, backing up folders, or scraping a few websites for updates.

I felt this would pair perfectly with my ongoing Python Automation series I just started over the last couple weeks as this will give you the chance to really apply what we’ve covered.

Think of it like a coffee maker with a timer. I set mine before bed, and every morning, my coffee is ready right on time at 5:45am.

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Scheduling a Python script works the same way. Once you set it up, your computer takes care of the rest. It runs your code exactly when you want, without you needing to remember.

In this article, you’ll learn how to make that happen. I’ll walk through how to schedule your Python scripts to run automatically using built-in tools on your computer: Task Scheduler on Windows and cron on macOS or Linux.

By the time you finish, you’ll have your Python programs running every day without lifting a finger.

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