Visual Studio Code (VSCode) is a popular code editor among developers due to its extensive features and customization options. While many developers are familiar with common keyboard shortcuts, there are several underrated key binding shortcuts in VSCode that can significantly boost productivity. In this article, we will explore some of these lesser-known shortcuts and how they can streamline your coding workflow.
1. Fold/Unfold All
Shortcut: Ctrl + K, Ctrl + 0 (Fold All) / Ctrl + K, Ctrl + J (Unfold All)
Effortlessly collapse or expand all code blocks in the active editor with these shortcuts. This feature comes in handy when you want to focus on a specific section of code or quickly navigate through a lengthy file.
2. Toggle Line Comment
Shortcut: Ctrl + /
Save time by quickly toggling line comments for the current line or selected lines. This shortcut works seamlessly across most programming languages, allowing you to add or remove comments without reaching for the mouse.
3. Copy Line Down/Up
Shortcut: Shift + Alt + Down arrow (Copy Line Down) / Shift + Alt + Up arrow (Copy Line Up)
Duplicate lines of code effortlessly by copying the current line or selected lines and moving the copied line(s) down or up. This shortcut is particularly useful when you need to replicate a piece of code without the need for manual copying and pasting.
4. Go to Bracket
Shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + \
Jump to the matching bracket (parenthesis, square bracket, or curly brace) in the current code block. This shortcut helps you quickly navigate and identify code blocks, ensuring that opening and closing brackets are balanced and properly nested.
5. Insert Line Above/Below
Shortcut: Ctrl + Enter (Insert Line Below) / Ctrl + Shift + Enter (Insert Line Above)
Efficiently insert an empty line below or above the current line without moving the cursor. This shortcut saves you from manually pressing the arrow keys and ensures a seamless coding experience.
6. Delete Line
Shortcut: Ctrl + Shift + K
Delete the current line or selected lines without copying them to the clipboard. This shortcut is a time-saver when you want to remove unnecessary code or quickly clean up your file.
7. Rename Symbol
Shortcut: F2
Easily rename variables, functions, or symbols under the cursor throughout the entire file. This shortcut allows you to make global changes to identifiers without manually searching and replacing each occurrence.
8. Quick Fix
Shortcut: Ctrl + .
Resolve highlighted errors or warnings quickly by accessing available quick fixes. This shortcut provides a convenient way to address code issues, such as missing imports or syntax errors, without interrupting your workflow.
9. Open Integrated Terminal
Shortcut: Ctrl + `
Access the integrated terminal within VSCode with this shortcut. You can execute commands and perform tasks without leaving the editor, enhancing your productivity and workflow efficiency.
10. Toggle Sidebar Visibility
Shortcut: Ctrl + B
Toggle the visibility of the sidebar (Explorer, Source Control, and Extensions) with this shortcut. This feature helps you declutter your workspace and focus on the code by hiding or revealing the sidebar as needed.
Conclusion:
By leveraging the power of underrated key binding shortcuts in Visual Studio Code, you can significantly improve your coding productivity. These shortcuts allow you to perform various tasks quickly and efficiently, from navigating code blocks to making global changes and accessing essential features. Incorporating these shortcuts into your workflow will undoubtedly enhance your development experience and save you valuable time in the long run. So, give them a try and experience the difference firsthand!
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