Solve the Problem of Python Matplotlib Interactive Graphs not Available in Spyder IDE

Python Matplotlib supports generating interactive graphs¹. However, recently when I try to generate one, it can’t be normally showed although there’s no any error (by the way, I used pyplot.show() at the end of the code and I could save the generated interactive graph by pyplot.savefig function²). And what’s worse is that ordinary static plots can’t be displayed neither at this time. Therefore, I guess this problem is most likely caused by improper IDE settings. The Python IDE I use is Spyder, so I find some corresponding solutions.

(1) The first solution I found is to change Graphics backend setting of Spyder IDE³: Tools tab on toolbar > Preferences > IPython console > Graphics > Graphics backend > change Automatic to Qt5. Then, restart Spyder IDE and install PyQt5 package by Python Pip.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
Python 3.11.9 (tags/v3.11.9:de54cf5, Apr  2 2024, 10:12:12) [MSC v.1938 64 bit (AMD64)]
Type "copyright", "credits" or "license" for more information.

IPython  -- An enhanced Interactive Python.

=========================================================================
NOTE: The following error appeared when setting your Matplotlib backend!!
=========================================================================

Failed to import any of the following Qt binding modules: PyQt5, PySide2

This is most likely caused by missing packages in the Python environment
or installation whose interpreter is located at:

    G:\...\...\Scripts\python.exe

After these steps, however, static graphs can be displayed but interactive ones still can not.

(2) Another way is trying to change IDE “Run” settings⁴. For my case, following specification — Tools > Preferences > Run > Console > change Execute in current console to Execute in an external system terminal — can finally make interactive graphs available.

However, during my actual use, both methods ‘sometimes’ aren’t helpful (that is sometimes they work, but sometimes don’t). I don’t know why; maybe other settings are improper as well. So at last, I think the best way is to directly run script file in external terminal, such as Windows PowerShell, by command python <$FILE_NAME>.py, leaving IDE aside when executing script. This way is always valid, at least for now.

References