VS Code is one of the best Integrated Development Environments out there, but it also has a reputation for being hard to navigate. Many may find its interface a bit too advanced and overlook valuable features, which might make them unable to boost workflow in Visual Studio Code.
But, this issue is easily solvable by looking at the tool’s abundance of resources on the internet. The cherry on top is that VS code comes with highly detailed documentation – easily accessible through its official website. So, if you are hesitating to cross over from your usual IDE to Visual Studio Code, this is your chance to do so.
Boost Workflow in Visual Studio Code
1. IntelliSense
The feature saves time by listing members such as variables, functions, data types, etc. It helps prevent data type errors by suggesting parameter information, i.e., the type of parameter a method requires.
One can even select members to look at quick info that can predict the statement a user is trying to use and prevent syntax errors. Moreover, it is entirely customizable, allowing users to see specific suggestions or turn them off.
2. Keyboard Shortcuts
There is a Keymaps feature that allows users to switch VS Code shortcuts to match shortcuts from other IDEs to use shortcuts they already know. This makes detecting and fixing key binding conflicts between default and customized shortcuts easy and boosts workflow. Also, command arguments let users temporarily modify key bindings for repetitive operations in specific projects or files.
3. Peeking and Debugging
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VS Code also lets users trace down sources among references using the peek reference feature to boost efficiency. They can easily access Peek definitions (information) by right-clicking on the code elements without moving the cursor away from its position.
Furthermore, one can use the debugger to inspect variables within the compiler while the file runs. The debugger configuration can also be accessed quickly using the command palette by pressing Ctrl+Shift+P.
4. File Nesting
All these files are then connected to the main file using filing methods and pointers. However, if the project is large, one may need to spend more time locating the main file. This is solved by file nesting.
Users can enhance file organization by nesting related files in the same root directory with a drop-down feature. The feature lets users configure areas where it is enabled or disabled.
One can easily change patterns of how the files are organized and separate them into directories of their liking. Angular components can also be grouped into their own directory to save space and make navigation easier.
5. Various Search Features
This may be particularly useful when a user works on a lengthy project and has to change a variable or fix an error in the code. The search features allow them to quickly get to the element and speed up their work.
The keyboard shortcut Ctrl+G allows users to track down and navigate to specific lines. Users can reduce time spent on typing by reusing parts of the search results as snippets.
One can search for recent files using Ctrl+P to use the quick open feature and navigate through history to locate your desired file. They can also look for variables across different files using the search icon from the left panel to locate them.
6. Linters for Formatting and Code Analysis
They are language-specific, so one may need to use specific lint extensions to use the features. Users can use VS Code’s run linting feature to automate linting whenever files are saved.
One can apply different formatters through linter extensions to add specific colors for highlighting areas of your projects. Linting is also great for performing easy code analysis on the go before doing actual testing on the finished product.
7. Zen Mode
The Zen Mode reduces distractions by making the editor full screen and removing any side panel temporarily. One can access the feature by using the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+K Z and also through the view menu or command palette.
Pressing the esc key twice lets users exit zen mode easily when they need the side panels or the toolbar. If a user deems the Zen mode unnecessary, they can easily disable it by navigating to window.fullScreenZenMode.
8. Command-Line Interface (CLI)
One can easily access Core CLI options through a series of arguments that make your boost your code speed. They can open or create multiple folders using CLI to launch them in multi-root workspaces.
The command-line interface can also help manage extensions with the help of a few command arguments to install, uninstall, disable, list, etc., and boost workflow. Moreover, CLI tools can also be accessed through the integrated terminal.
9. Integrations and Extensions
For instance, Github integration allows users to access Git commits from within the code editor. Source control management (SCM) extensions enable users to track and manage code changes.
While the editor doesn’t have language support, many free language extensions are available in the marketplace. Snippet extensions boost workflow in Visual Studio Code by letting users copy-paste parts of readymade codes when needed.
10. Live Share for Programming with Teams
Bidirectional collaboration also enhances the peer programming experience for team projects. One can get live share through the Github extension pack or Azure extension pack for free. The feature lets users live to edit a single code through a team network without configuring it repeatedly. The live share extension pack works for Windows, Linux, and MacOS devices – so teammates can collaborate without moving out of their comfort zone.
That Was All!
One cannot cover all the features that can boost workflow in Visual Code Studio in a single sitting – but we tried our best to introduce you to the essential ones. So, if you are a beginner struggling who is to get back on track with VS Code, this is your cue to give it a last try.
We can assure you that once you get the hang of it, you will never wish to switch IDEs again, as VS Code supports Python, Java, JavaScript, C, C++, Rust, Fortran, and many more languages. If you liked reading this, leave us feedback and tell us what more you’d like. Thanks!