Python, like any programming language, follows a program life cycle. The stages are conceptual and not specific to Python syntax, but here's how they apply: 1. Planning: You decide what you want your Python program to do. This might involve writing down ideas, creating flowcharts, or defining the inputs and expected outputs. 2. Design: You plan the structure of your Python code. This could involve deciding on functions, classes, and how different parts of your program will interact. 3. Implementation: You write the actual Python code using a text editor or an Integrated Development Environment (IDE). For example, you might write print("Hello, World!") or define a function like def add_numbers(a, b): return a + b. 4. Testing: You run your Python script to see if it works as expected. You might use assert statements or write separate test scripts to check different scenarios. For instance, you'd test add_numbers(2, 3) to ensure it returns 5. 5. Deployment: You make your Python program available to others. This could mean sharing the .py file, packaging it into an executable, or deploying it as a web application. 6. Maintenance: You might update your Python program later to fix bugs discovered after deployment or to add new features. For example, you might add error handling to your add_numbers function. 7. Retirement: When the program is no longer needed or is replaced by a better solution, it is retired.