Why is `pyenv global` and `local` not working?

There are several reasons why pyenv global and pyenv local might not be working as expected. Let's explore some common causes and their solutions:

1. Pyenv Not Properly Initialized:

- Ensure that Pyenv is correctly initialized in your shell. This typically involves adding some lines to your shell's configuration file (e.g., .bashrc, .zshrc). Verify that you have the following lines in your shell configuration file:

export PATH="$HOME/.pyenv/bin:$PATH"
eval "$(pyenv init --path)"
eval "$(pyenv virtualenv-init -)"
eval "$(pyenv shell-init -)"

- After adding these lines, restart your shell or source the configuration file (e.g., source ~/.bashrc or source ~/.zshrc).

2. Incorrect Version Name or Alias:

- When using pyenv global or pyenv local, make sure you're using a valid Python version name or alias that Pyenv recognizes. List available versions with pyenv versions and make sure the version you're trying to set is listed.

- Example: pyenv global 3.9.7 or pyenv local 3.8.10

3. Conflicting Environment Variables:

- Check for any conflicting environment variables like PYTHONPATH or PYTHONHOME that might override Pyenv's settings. Unset these variables or adjust them to work with Pyenv.

- Example: unset PYTHONPATH

4. Incorrect Directory for `pyenv local`:

- The pyenv local command creates a .python-version file in the current directory. Ensure you are in the correct project directory when running this command.

- Check that the .python-version file exists in the directory where you expect it and contains the correct Python version.

5. Pyenv Shims Not Working:

- Pyenv uses shims to intercept Python commands. If these shims are not working, ensure that the $HOME/.pyenv/shims directory is in your PATH and that it precedes other Python installations.

- Check your PATH using echo $PATH and verify the order.

6. Rehash After Installing New Versions:

- After installing a new Python version with Pyenv, you may need to run pyenv rehash. This command updates Pyenv's shims to include the new version.

7. Virtual Environment Conflicts:

- If you are using pyenv virtualenv, ensure that the virtual environment is properly activated. If the global or local version is not taking effect, try deactivating any active virtual environments with deactivate before setting the version.

8. Outdated Pyenv Installation:

- An outdated Pyenv installation can cause unexpected behavior. Update Pyenv to the latest version using pyenv update.

By checking these points, you should be able to identify and resolve the issue preventing pyenv global and pyenv local from working correctly.

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