How to Use VS Code Like a Pro: Extensions and Shortcuts
Hello, future code master! If you’re venturing into the world of programming, keeping your tools sharp is crucial. Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a free and powerful source code editor from Microsoft, jam-packed with features to boost your coding productivity. Whether you’re developing a simple HTML page or diving into complex projects, knowing how to leverage VS Code effectively can save you time and make your coding experience smoother and more enjoyable.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through some game-changing extensions and shortcuts that will transform you from a VS Code beginner to a pro. Let’s get started!
Why VS Code?
Before diving into extensions and shortcuts, let’s briefly touch on why VS Code is so widely loved. It’s lightweight yet powerful, supports a wide range of programming languages, and boasts an ever-growing library of extensions. Plus, it’s open-source and customizable, meaning you can tweak and tailor it to perfectly fit your coding habits.
Must-Have VS Code Extensions
Extensions are small add-ons that enhance the functionality of VS Code. Here are some must-have extensions that can significantly improve your coding experience:
1. Prettier
What it does: Prettier is an opinionated code formatter that helps maintain a consistent style by parsing your code and re-printing it with its own rules.
How to install:
1. Go to the Extensions view by clicking on the Extensions icon in the Activity bar on the side of the window (or press Ctrl + Shift + X).
2. In the search box, type “Prettier.”
3. Click Install on the Prettier extension by Prettier.
Once installed, configure it to format your code on save:
1. Open your settings by navigating to File > Preferences > Settings (or use the shortcut Ctrl + ,).
2. Search for ‘format on save’ and check the box to enable.
2. ESLint
What it does: ESLint is a tool for identifying and reporting on patterns found in ECMAScript/JavaScript code, allowing you to find and fix problems in your JavaScript code.
How to install:
1. Follow the same steps as above, search for “ESlint” in the Extensions view.
2. Click Install.
Now, every time you save your JavaScript code, ESLint will ensure it adheres to specified standards, reducing bugs and improving code quality.
3. Live Server
What it does: Launch a local development server with live reload feature for dynamic pages.
How to install:
1. Search for “Live Server” in the Extensions view.
2. Click Install.
To use Live Server, right-click on your index.html file and select “Open with Live Server.” Your default browser will open, displaying your project, and it will auto-refresh whenever you save changes.
Time-Saving VS Code Shortcuts
Here are some keyboard shortcuts that every VS Code user should memorize to navigate and code efficiently:
1. Command Palette
Shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + P (Mac)
What it does: This is your magic wand. Instantly search and execute any command. If ever you forget a shortcut, the Command Palette can come to your rescue.
2. Side Bar Toggle
Shortcut: Ctrl + B (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + B (Mac)
What it does: Quickly toggle the side bar on or off to gain more screen real estate for your code.
3. Multi-Cursor Editing
Shortcut: Alt + Click (Windows/Linux) or Option + Click (Mac)
What it does: This allows you to place multiple cursors in your document and edit at various points simultaneously. Perfect for when you need to make similar changes in multiple places.
4. File Explorer Focus
Shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + E (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + E (Mac)
What it does: Quickly focus on the File Explorer. This helps when navigating between files within your project.
Workflow Tips
To take full advantage of VS Code like a seasoned coder, try integrating these practices into your workflow:
- Learn to debug: Use breakpoints and the interactive debugging console to inspect code and fix bugs on the fly.
- Git Integration: VS Code offers built-in support for Git. Use it to track changes and manage version control without leaving the editor.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You now have a toolkit filled with VS Code extensions and shortcuts to improve your coding efficiency. Using these tools, you’ll spend less time wrestling with formatting and debugging and more time crafting amazing code.
Practice Ideas
1. Build a Simple Webpage: Using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, create a simple webpage. Use Live Server to view changes in real-time, and ensure your code is linted and formatted using ESLint and Prettier.
2. Explore VS Code Themes: Customize your editor’s look by exploring different themes. It’s not just about aesthetics— a comfortable visual environment can enhance your coding experience.
VS Code is a powerful ally in your coding journey. With time and practice, these tools and shortcuts will become second nature, and you’ll find yourself coding faster and more efficiently than ever before. Happy coding, and don’t hesitate to ask questions and experiment along the way!