How to Set Up Visual Studio Code on Windows or Mac

Visual Studio Code (VSCode) is a free code editor developed by Microsoft, offering extensive features like debugging, integrated Git control, syntax highlighting, and a rich extension ecosystem. This guide will walk you through the installation process and introduce you to the basics of using VSCode so you can start using it in no time.

Image credits: Visual Studio Code

Step 1: Download Visual Studio Code

First, download the installer. Open your web browser and go to the official Visual Studio Code website. On the homepage, you’ll find download links for different operating systems. Click the link for your operating system, either Windows or Mac. The download should start automatically. Once it’s complete, open the installer file.

Step 2: Install Visual Studio Code

For Windows Users

1. Run the Setup Wizard: A setup wizard will appear. Click “Next” to proceed.
2. Accept the License Agreement: Read the license agreement, then click “I accept the agreement” and “Next.”

3. Choose Installation Location: The default location is usually fine, so click “Next.”
4. Select Additional Tasks: You can create a desktop icon or add VSCode to the PATH environment variable. Make your selections and click “Next.”
5. Install: Click “Install.” The process will take a few moments. Once complete, click “Finish” to launch Visual Studio Code.

For Mac Users

1. Open the downloaded File: Open the downloaded VSCode application.
2. Drag and Drop: Drag and drop the Visual Studio Code icon into the Applications folder. This copies VSCode to your Applications folder.
3. Launch VSCode: Open Visual Studio Code from your Applications folder.

Step 3: Launch Visual Studio Code

When you first launch Visual Studio Code, you’ll see a welcome screen. This screen gives you quick access to helpful resources like documentation and tutorials. To start a new project or open an existing one, click the “Open Folder” button on the welcome screen. Navigate to the folder you want to work in and click “Select Folder” (or “Open” on Mac). This opens the folder in the VSCode workspace.

Step 4: Exploring the Interface

Now that you have VSCode open, let’s explore its interface. On the left-hand side, you’ll see the Activity Bar, which contains icons for various views, such as Explorer, Search, Source Control, Run, and Extensions. Here’s a quick overview of these views:

• Explorer: Displays your project’s files and folders, allowing easy navigation.
• Search: Lets you search for files and text within your project.
• Source Control: Integrates with version control systems like Git to manage code changes.
• Run: Provides debugging and run options for your project.
• Extensions: Allows you to browse and install extensions to enhance your coding experience.

Above the Activity Bar is the Side Bar, which shows detailed information about the selected view. For example, in the Explorer view, the Side Bar displays your project’s directory structure. To open a file, simply click on it in the Explorer view. The file will open in the main editor window, where you can start coding.

Step 5: Using the Command Palette

The Command Palette is a powerful feature that provides quick access to various commands and features. You can open it by pressing Ctrl+Shift+P on Windows or Cmd+Shift+P on Mac. From the Command Palette, you can search for commands, open files, and run tasks, significantly speeding up your workflow.

Step 6: Customizing Visual Studio Code

VSCode offers extensive customization options. You can change the color theme, adjust the layout, and configure settings to suit your preferences. To change the color theme, open the Command Palette and type “Color Theme.” Select “Preferences: Color Theme” and choose from the available themes. To access more settings, click on the gear icon in the lower-left corner of the window and select “Settings.” This opens the settings editor, where you can modify various aspects of the editor.

Step 7: Installing Extensions

Extensions are a key feature of VSCode, adding functionality and support for different programming languages, tools, and frameworks. To install an extension:

1. Go to the Extensions View: Click the square icon in the Activity Bar.
2. Browse or Search for Extensions: Find extensions you want to install.
3. Install Extensions: Click the “Install” button. After installation, you may need to reload the window for the extension to take effect.

You're all set! Feel free to check out some of my other tutorials, such as creating a calculator and building an adventure game. Happy coding!