visual studio code format shortcut keep multiple files open

Mastering Visual Studio Code Format Shortcuts for Keeping Multiple Files Open

As an avid programmer, you're likely no stranger to the world of Integrated Development Environments (IDEs). One popular choice among developers is Visual Studio Code (VS Code), a lightweight yet powerful platform that offers a wide range of features and extensions. Among these extensions is ElixirLS, a language server designed specifically for Elixir development.

In this article, we'll explore the importance of formatting shortcuts in VS Code and how they can help you keep multiple files open simultaneously. We'll also delve into the world of Elixir plug-ins and discuss why it's essential to choose one extension that provides the most value.

Why Formatting Shortcuts Matter

When working on a large project, it's not uncommon to have multiple files open at once. This is where formatting shortcuts come in – they allow you to quickly switch between files without having to manually navigate through your directory structure. In VS Code, you can access these shortcuts by pressing the `Ctrl + Tab` keys (or `Cmd + Tab` on a Mac). By default, this shortcut will cycle through all open files, allowing you to easily jump between different parts of your project.

However, formatting shortcuts are not limited to just cycling through files. With VS Code's powerful extension ecosystem, you can also customize the behavior of these shortcuts to suit your specific needs. For example, you can use the `Ctrl + Tab` shortcut to switch between files and then press `Ctrl + Shift + Tab` to move in reverse.

The ElixirLS Extension

One popular extension for VS Code is ElixirLS, a language server that provides comprehensive support for Elixir development. This extension is powered by the ElixirLS Language Server, which offers advanced features such as code completion, error checking, and debugging.

When you install the ElixirLS extension, it will create a PLT (Persistent Lookup Table) file in your project directory. This file takes close to 20 minutes to build the first time it runs, but subsequent builds are much faster. Behind the scenes, ElixirLS is generating a large PLT for Dialyzer, which provides advanced code analysis and debugging capabilities.

Tips for Getting Started with ElixirLS

If you're new to VS Code and the ElixirLS extension, here are a few tips to help you get started:

* Make sure to ignore the `.elixir_ls` directory in your `gitignore` file to prevent it from being committed to your repository.

* Take some time to familiarize yourself with the extension's features, including code completion, error checking, and debugging.

* Experiment with different formatting shortcuts to find what works best for you.

In conclusion, mastering Visual Studio Code format shortcuts is essential for keeping multiple files open simultaneously. By customizing these shortcuts, you can improve your workflow and increase productivity. Additionally, the ElixirLS extension offers a wide range of features that can help you streamline your development process.

If you're new to VS Code and the ElixirLS extension, don't be discouraged if it takes some time to get used to its features. With practice and patience, you'll soon become proficient in using these tools to take your Elixir development to the next level.

Visual studio code format shortcut keep multiple files open