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1. Syntax Highlighting

VS Code enhances code readability by coloring different elements such as keywords, variables, functions, and data types. This helps in quickly identifying syntax errors and distinguishing between different parts of the code.

  • Supports various programming languages like JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, and more.
  • Customizable themes allow developers to choose color schemes that suit their preferences.

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2. Debugging

VS Code includes a built-in debugger that allows developers to:

  • Set breakpoints to pause execution and inspect code behavior.
  • Step through the code line by line to analyze logic.
  • View variable values and call stack in real-time.
  • Debug various environments, including Node.js, Python, and web applications.

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3. Git Integration

Seamlessly manage version control within VS Code, eliminating the need for external Git clients.

  • Clone repositories, commit, push, pull, and merge branches directly from the editor.
  • View file differences and track changes in the source control panel.
  • Resolve merge conflicts using built-in diff tools.

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4. Extensions

VS Code’s Extensions Marketplace offers thousands of plugins to enhance productivity.

  • Install language packs, linters, themes, and debugging tools.
  • Popular extensions include Prettier (code formatter), ESLint (linting), and GitLens (advanced Git tools).
  • Custom extensions allow integration with Shaper’s design and AI-powered automation.

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5. Multi-Cursor Editing

Edit multiple lines simultaneously by placing multiple cursors.

  • Select multiple instances of a word using Ctrl + D (Windows) or Cmd + D (Mac).
  • Create multiple cursors using Alt + Click (Windows) or Option + Click (Mac).
  • Speeds up repetitive edits, such as renaming variables across multiple lines.

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6. Command Palette

A powerful searchable menu (Ctrl + Shift + P or Cmd + Shift + P) that allows quick access to all VS Code commands.

  • Run commands without navigating menus.
  • Find and execute commands like formatting, Git operations, debugging, and settings adjustments.
  • Provides fuzzy search, meaning you can type parts of a command and still find the right option.

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7. IntelliSense

VS Code’s AI-powered code suggestion tool offers:

  • Smart auto-completion for functions, variables, and modules.
  • Inline documentation and parameter hints for function calls.
  • Works with multiple languages like JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, and Go.

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8. Terminal Access

VS Code includes an integrated terminal, allowing developers to execute commands without leaving the editor.

  • Run npm scripts, build commands, and Git operations.
  • Supports multiple terminal sessions for different environments.
  • Customizable shell options including PowerShell, Bash, and Zsh.

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9. Linting

Linting tools detect syntax errors, style issues, and potential bugs before execution.

  • Built-in support for popular linters like ESLint, TSLint, and Pylint.
  • Reduces debugging time by catching issues early in development.
  • Works with real-time code analysis and error reporting.

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10. Formatting

Keep your code clean and consistent with VS Code’s auto-formatting tools.

  • Use Shift + Alt + F (Windows) or Shift + Option + F (Mac) to format code instantly.
  • Supports custom formatting rules via tools like Prettier and ESLint.
  • Helps maintain a standardized coding style across teams.

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11. Refactoring Tools

VS Code simplifies code restructuring with built-in refactoring tools.

  • Rename variables and functions across an entire project (F2).
  • Extract code into separate functions or classes.
  • Automatically fix import statements and optimize code.

Quickly find and open files using the fuzzy search feature (Ctrl + P or Cmd + P).

  • Search within a specific folder or across the entire workspace.
  • Jump directly to specific lines and symbols within a file.
  • Use regular expressions for advanced searches.

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13. Code Snippets

Boost productivity with predefined or custom code snippets.

  • Type a shortcut (e.g., log for console.log()), then press Tab to expand it.
  • Save custom snippets for frequently used functions and components.
  • Reduce repetitive typing and speed up development.

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14. Version Control

Track changes, view history, and revert to previous versions.

  • Integrated source control panel shows file modifications.
  • Allows blame tracking to see who last modified a line of code.
  • Supports Git, SVN, and other version control systems.