Code Editors and IDEs

Goal

Learn about different code editors and integrated development environments (IDEs), and how to choose one that fits your needs. We’ll also show you how to set up a recommended editor (VS Code) with useful extensions for Python and Git development.

Prerequisites

• 03 Introduction to the Command Line

1. Introduction

A code editor is a tool where you write code. It’s different from a text editor like Notepad because it understands programming languages and provides helpful features like:

• Syntax highlighting: Colors different parts of code (keywords, strings, comments) to make them easier to read

• Auto-completion: Suggests function names and variables as you type

• Error detection: Highlights mistakes before you run the code

• Integration with Git: Makes it easy to commit and push changes without using the terminal

• Extensions/Plugins: Add functionality for specific languages and tools

An IDE (Integrated Development Environment) is a more powerful version that also includes a debugger, built-in terminal, and project management tools.

2. Popular Options

VS Code (Recommended for Beginners)

• Type: Lightweight Editor (can act like an IDE with extensions)

• Cost: Free and open source

• Best for: Python, web development, general coding

• Pros: Lightweight, huge extension marketplace, excellent Git integration, great for beginners

• Cons: Requires extensions to reach full IDE capabilities

Install: code.visualstudio.com

PyCharm

• Type: Full IDE

• Cost: Free Community Edition (or paid Professional)

• Best for: Python development, data science

• Pros: Powerful, built specifically for Python, excellent debugging

• Cons: Heavier than VS Code, steeper learning curve

Install: jetbrains.com/pycharm

Jupyter Notebook

• Type: Interactive notebook environment

• Cost: Free and open source

• Best for: Data exploration, scientific computing, teaching

• Pros: Great for learning, inline visualization, easy data exploration

• Cons: Not ideal for large software packages; hard to use with Git

Install: Included when you install Anaconda/Miniconda

Sublime Text

• Type: Lightweight Editor

• Cost: Paid (with free trial)

• Best for: General coding, quick edits

• Pros: Fast, minimal interface, good for advanced users

• Cons: Less beginner-friendly than VS Code

Vim / Neovim

• Type: Terminal-based Editor

• Cost: Free and open source

• Best for: Advanced users, remote servers

• Pros: Powerful, available everywhere, no GUI needed

• Cons: Steep learning curve, not recommended for beginners

3. Recommended Setup: VS Code with Python Extensions

3.1 Install VS Code

1. Go to code.visualstudio.com

2. Download and install for your operating system

3.2 Essential Extensions

Open VS Code and go to Extensions (Ctrl+Shift+X / Cmd+Shift+X). Search for and install:

1. Python (Microsoft)

   • Essential for Python development

   • Provides intellisense, linting, debugging

2. Pylance (Microsoft)

   • Enhanced Python language support

   • Better code completion and type checking

3. Git Graph (mhutchie)

   • Visual representation of your Git branches and commits

4. GitHub Pull Requests and Issues (GitHub)

   • Manage PRs and issues directly from VS Code

5. Jupyter (Microsoft)

   • Run Jupyter notebooks directly in VS Code

6. Better Comments (Aaron Bond)

   • Color-code your comments for better organization

3.3 Configure Python Interpreter

1. Open a Python file or create one (touch test.py)

2. Press Ctrl+Shift+P (Cmd+Shift+P on macOS)

3. Type “Python: Select Interpreter”

4. Choose your preferred Python environment (from conda, venv, or system Python)

3.4 Configure Git Integration

1. Go to View → Source Control (or press Ctrl+Shift+G)

2. VS Code will automatically detect your Git repositories

3. You can now stage, commit, and push changes without leaving the editor

4. Basic VS Code Workflow

Opening a Project

1. File → Open Folder and select your project directory

2. VS Code will recognize it as a workspace

Writing and Editing Code

1. Create new files with File → New File or Ctrl+N

2. VS Code’s intellisense will suggest completions as you type

3. Errors appear as red squiggles—hover over them for details

Running Code

1. Open a Python file

2. Click the ▶ button in the top right, or press Ctrl+F5

3. Output appears in the Terminal pane

Using the Terminal

1. Press `Ctrl+`` (backtick) to open the integrated terminal

2. You can run commands without leaving the editor

Using Version Control

1. Open Source Control (Ctrl+Shift+G)

2. Stage files by clicking the + icon

3. Write a commit message and press Ctrl+Enter

4. Push with Push button or from the Source Control menu

5. Verification

You can verify your setup is complete when:

• VS Code opens successfully

• You can create a new Python file and see syntax highlighting

• Intellisense suggests code completions as you type

• You can see your Git repositories in the Source Control panel

• You can run a simple Python script by clicking the ▶ button

Next Steps

Congratulations! You now have a professional development environment. You’re ready to write some code! While we’re developing our own Python tutorial series, we recommend exploring the Intro to Python course to learn Python fundamentals before moving on to more advanced topics.