The Visual Studio Code Editor
For CS 70, we ask that you do all of your coding in the Visual Studio Code editor. All of the assignments have been designed to integrate with VS Code.
Code also allows you to transparently work on files on the CS 70 server, which we'll explain on the next page.
The lab machines should have VS Code installed, but you may also install it on your own computer as well, so you have the option to use it outside the lab.
Installing VS Code
You should follow the instructions on Visual Studio Code's download page for your own operating system. Each system you install on (and each version of each operating system!) will look slightly different.
Video Example: Installing VS Code (on a Mac)
As an example, here's what it looked like when we installed Visual Studio Code on a Mac running macOS Catalina.
Note that in this video, Prof. Medero installs the "Remote - Containers" extension, which we won't need this semester. But you can use the same process to install the "Remote - SSH" extension, which we will need! You might also want to install the C/C++ Plugin, but if you don't do it now the editor will suggest it later.
Finally, if you have previously installed any AI-assisted coding extensions (ChatGPT, GitHub Copilot, etc.) make sure they are disabled. You are doing this homework by yourself and the remaining homework with one other person. Having a Large Language Model writing code for you is like adding an extra person to your programming team, and is not helpful in building your coding ability and confidence.
Using VS Code on Lab Machines
VS Code should already be installed and working on lab machines; if not, ask for help.
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