Introduction

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a powerful code editor favored by developers worldwide. One of the key features that enhance productivity in VS Code is its extensive list of keyboard shortcuts. These shortcuts can significantly speed up your workflow, making coding more efficient and enjoyable. Below are three practical examples of keyboard shortcuts that you can integrate into your daily coding routine.

1. Quick File Navigation

When working on large projects, being able to navigate files quickly is crucial. This shortcut allows you to open the file explorer and jump to any file within your workspace without taking your hands off the keyboard.

Press Ctrl + P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + P (Mac). This opens the Quick Open dialog, where you can start typing the name of the file you want to access.

Once the dialog appears, simply start typing the filename. VS Code will automatically filter the list of files in your workspace. For instance, if you’re looking for a file named app.js, typing app will quickly bring it up.

Notes:

• You can also use this shortcut to navigate to specific symbols or functions within a file by typing @ followed by the symbol name.

2. Multi-Cursor Editing

Efficiently editing the same line across multiple places in your code can be a tedious task. With this shortcut, you can create multiple cursors, allowing you to edit text in several locations simultaneously.

To use this feature, hold down the Alt key (Windows/Linux) or Option key (Mac), and click in each location where you want a cursor. For example, if you want to change variable names in multiple places, clicking at each location will create a cursor at those points.

Once you have made your selections, simply type the new variable name, and it will replace the old name in all locations.

Notes:

• You can also use Ctrl + Alt + Down/Up Arrow (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Option + Down/Up Arrow (Mac) to add cursors vertically, allowing for adjustments in a columnar fashion.

3. Integrated Terminal Access

The integrated terminal in VS Code allows you to run command-line tools without leaving the editor. This shortcut quickly opens or focuses on the terminal, streamlining your workflow.

Press Ctrl + (the backtick key, Windows/Linux) or Cmd + (the backtick key, Mac) to toggle the terminal. This is particularly useful when you need to run scripts, install packages, or compile code while coding without switching applications.

Once the terminal is open, you can execute commands directly, such as npm install or python script.py, without interrupting your coding session.

Notes:

• You can open multiple terminals and switch between them with Ctrl + Shift + (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + (Mac).

By incorporating these examples of keyboard shortcuts for Visual Studio Code into your workflow, you can enhance your productivity and efficiency while coding.