How to Clear the Terminal in Python: 5 Easy Methods

When writing or testing Python scripts, your terminal can quickly become cluttered with logs, debug messages, and outputs. A clean console not only improves readability but also helps you stay focused on the results you actually need. Fortunately, Python offers several reliable ways to clear the terminal, depending on your operating system, IDE, and environment. From blazing-fast ANSI escape codes to built-in commands in Python 3.13, you have plenty of options at your disposal.

In this guide, we’ll explore five effective methods to clear the terminal in Python, complete with examples, tips, and IDE considerations—so you can pick the best solution for your workflow.

Method 1 — Clearing with ANSI Escape Codes (Fast and Cross-Platform)

ANSI escape codes are the most efficient way to clear the terminal without invoking a subprocess. They directly control cursor movement and screen behavior.

• Step 1: Move the cursor to the home position and clear the screen.

print("\033[H\033[2J", end="")

• Step 2: Clear both the screen and the scrollback buffer.

print("\033[H\033[3J", end="")

• Step 3: Perform a complete terminal reset.

print("\033c", end="")

⚠️ Note: ANSI codes work in most modern terminals (including Windows Terminal), but they don’t function in Python’s IDLE.

Method 2 — Using OS Commands (cls or clear)

If you prefer to mimic shell behavior, you can call the system’s built-in clear command.

• Step 1: Define a function that chooses the correct command based on the OS.

import os
import subprocess

def clear_console():
    cmd = "cls" if os.name == "nt" else "clear"
    subprocess.call(cmd, shell=True)

• Step 2: Use the function whenever you need a clean terminal.

clear_console()

• Step 3: Alternative using os.system:

import os
os.system("cls" if os.name == "nt" else "clear")

💡 Tip for PyCharm users: Enable “Emulate terminal in output console” under Run/Debug configurations so cls or clear works correctly.

Method 3 — Built-in clear Command in Python 3.13

Starting with Python 3.13, the interactive shell supports a native clear command.

• Step 1: Launch the Python 3.13 REPL.
• Step 2: Type:

clear

and press Enter to instantly wipe the screen.

This feature comes from PEP 762, making clearing the console more user-friendly.

Method 4 — Keyboard Shortcuts (Manual, Interactive Only)

When working interactively in a terminal, keyboard shortcuts provide instant clearing without code.

• Unix/Linux: Press Ctrl + L to clear the screen.
• macOS Terminal: Press Cmd + K to clear both the screen and scrollback.

⚠️ These shortcuts don’t apply inside running Python scripts.

Method 5 — Printing Newlines (Last Resort)

If none of the above works—such as in restricted IDEs—you can simulate clearing by pushing old output off-screen.

• Step 1: Print multiple newlines.

print("\n" * 100)

• Step 2: Adjust dynamically based on terminal size.

import shutil
lines = shutil.get_terminal_size(fallback=(80, 24)).lines
print("\n" * lines, end="")

This method doesn’t actually erase the buffer but provides a temporary visual reset.

Environment Notes

• IDLE Shell: Ignores ANSI codes and cls/clear. Restarting the shell is often the only option.
• PyCharm: Enable terminal emulation to make clear commands behave like a real console.
• Best Practice: Use ANSI codes for performance and OS commands for compatibility.

Conclusion

Clearing the terminal in Python may seem trivial, but choosing the right method can save time and reduce frustration. Whether you use ANSI escape codes for speed, system commands for reliability, or Python 3.13’s built-in clear, each approach has its place. For everyday scripting, ANSI codes are the fastest, while IDE users may need extra configuration.

Experiment with these methods in your environment, and soon clearing your Python console will become second nature.