Coding⏱️ 2 min read📅 2026-05-31

How to Fix: What's the bad magic number error?

Python Import Error

Quick Answer: The 'Bad magic number' ImportError in Python occurs when the interpreter is unable to find a compiled .pyc file that matches the version of Python being used. To fix this, ensure you are using the correct version of Python and try recompiling the file with the same version.

The 'Bad magic number' ImportError in Python occurs when a .pyc file (compiled version of your Python script) is not compatible with the version of Python you are using to run it. This can happen if you have made changes to your code and then compiled it again, but haven't updated the corresponding .pyc files.

🚀 How to Resolve This Issue

Method 1: Update the .pyc Files

  1. Step 1: Locate the .pyc file that is causing the error. You can do this by looking for the corresponding .py file in your project directory and checking if there's a .pyc file next to it.

Method 2: Use the -c Option

  1. Step 1: Run your Python script using the -c option, which allows you to specify a code snippet instead of loading an entire file.

Method 3: Use PyCharm or Other IDEs

  1. Step 1: If you are using an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) like PyCharm, it can automatically update the .pyc files for you.

🎯 Final Words

By following these methods, you should be able to resolve the 'Bad magic number' ImportError in Python and get your script running smoothly again.

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