Visual Studio Code has become one of the most popular code editors, but not everyone realizes the hidden gems within it. Here, I’ll take you through five powerful features in VS Code that will change how you code, streamline your workflow, and make everyday tasks faster and easier.
- Multi-Cursor Editing
Mastering multi-cursor editing lets you make repetitive edits in seconds. By holding Alt (Windows) or Option (Mac) and clicking, you can edit multiple lines at once — perfect for updating variable names, refactoring, or handling multiple text replacements at once.
2. Integrated Git Timeline
Tracking your code changes becomes so much easier with VS Code’s built-in Git Timeline. Under the Source Control tab, the Timeline view shows your commit history, making it easy to see when changes were made. It’s a lifesaver for tracking down specific modifications without leaving the editor.
3. Using Emmet Shortcuts for Faster HTML and CSS
Emmet shortcuts are pre-installed in VS Code and offer powerful shorthand that expands as you type. For example, typing div.myclass and pressing Tab instantly creates <div class="myclass"></div>. This feature speeds up HTML and CSS writing immensely.
4. Integrated Terminal and Task Runner
Many developers don’t fully use the built-in terminal in VS Code. You can run commands, scripts, or monitor logs all within VS Code without switching windows. The Task Runner can even automate builds or tests with customizable commands.
5. Settings Sync for a Consistent Experience Across Devices
If you work on multiple devices, syncing settings can save you from re-customizing every time. Syncing themes, extensions, and settings ensures that no matter where you code, you always have the same setup. You can enable this feature under the Account settings.
Conclusion:
These hidden features can streamline your coding and make VS Code work even harder for you. Try these tips and see how much faster you can get things done!
