CodeHS Guide: How to Create an Account and Write Code

CodeHS is a great online platform that lets you write Python code directly in the browser — no installation required. We’ll be using it in our first lessons.

Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to get started.

Step 1: Sign Up

1. Go to CodeHS.com.
2. Click the Sign Up button in the top-right corner.
3. You’ll be asked to choose a role. Make sure to select Student.
4. If you have a Google account, the fastest option is Continue with Google. You can also enter your email and create a password.

💡 What if you can’t create an account?
If something isn’t working, use the direct link to the Sandbox. It lets you write code temporarily without registering.

Step 2: Create a Project (Python)

After signing up, you’ll land on the Dashboard.
To start writing code, you need to create your first “project.” In CodeHS, this is called a Sandbox program.

1. Find the Sandbox section in the left or top menu and open it.
2. Click the + New Program button in the top-right corner.
3. A language selection dialog will appear. Find and select Python 3.
4. Give your project a name (e.g., RocketLaunch) and click Create Program.

Step 3: Where Do You Write Code?

The editor will open with three main panels:
- Left — your project files. By default, you’re working in main.py.
- Center — the code editor itself. This is where you write your code!
- Right — a black Terminal window (also called the console). This is where your program’s output appears.

Step 4: Run Your Program

1. Write a few lines of code in the center panel (e.g., print('Hello, Mission Control!')).
2. Find the bright green ▶ Run button in the top-right corner and click it.
3. The output should appear in the black panel on the right!

Step 5: Share Your Code 🔗

Once you’ve completed an assignment, you’ll need to submit your code for review.

1. Find the Share button in the top-right corner of the CodeHS interface.
2. In the dialog that appears, copy the link (it should look something like: https://codehs.com/sandbox/id/project-name).
3. Make sure the link is set to public view.
4. Paste the link into the assignment submission field in our course.

That’s it! You’re all set to conquer space with Python. Head back to the lesson and start your first assignment!