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  • 10 Essential VS Code Extensions Every Developer Should Use

    10 Essential VS Code Extensions Every Developer Should Use

    Introduction

    Visual Studio Code, commonly known as VS Code, is one of the most popular code editors used by developers around the world. It’s lightweight, fast, and works on all major platforms like Windows, macOS, and Linux. What makes VS Code stand out is how customizable it is, allowing developers to tailor their workspace to fit their unique needs.

    One of the best ways to unlock VS Code’s full potential is through extensions. Extensions add extra features and tools that make coding easier, faster, and more efficient. Whether you want automatic code formatting, better debugging tools, or helpful shortcuts, there’s an extension for that.

    In this post, we’ll explore 10 essential VS Code extensions that every developer should consider using. These tools will help you write cleaner code, catch errors earlier, and speed up your workflow—whether you’re just starting out or have been coding for years. Let’s dive in!

    Why Use VS Code Extensions?

    VS Code extensions are powerful tools that help you customize and improve your coding experience. Here are some key benefits of using them:

    • Customization:
      Extensions let you tailor VS Code to fit your specific workflow. For example, you can add language support for Python, JavaScript, or even Markdown. This way, your editor understands the code you write and helps you better.
    • Automation:
      Many extensions automate repetitive tasks. For instance, a formatter like Prettier can automatically fix your code’s style every time you save a file, so you don’t have to worry about indentation or spacing.
    • Improve Code Quality:
      Extensions like ESLint help catch errors and potential bugs early by highlighting problems as you type. This makes your code more reliable and easier to maintain.
    • Enhanced Developer Experience:
      Extensions can add helpful features such as live previews, Git integration, or debugging tools. For example, Live Server lets you see your web page update instantly as you make changes, speeding up your development process.

    The best part? Extensions cater to all skill levels. Beginners can find helpful tools to learn and avoid mistakes, while experienced developers can use advanced features to boost their productivity.

    Using the right extensions transforms VS Code from a simple editor into a personalized, powerful development environment tailored just for you.

    Criteria for Choosing These Extensions

    Not all extensions are created equal. To help you get the most value, we chose extensions based on a few important criteria:

    • Usability:
      The extension should be easy to install and use, even if you’re new to VS Code. Clear setup and straightforward features make it beginner-friendly.
    • Beginner-Friendly:
      Since many developers are still learning, the extensions should offer helpful guidance or work mostly automatically without complex configuration.
    • Wide Adoption:
      Extensions that many developers use are usually reliable and well-supported. Popular extensions often have plenty of tutorials and community help available.
    • Active Maintenance:
      Good extensions get regular updates from their creators. This means they stay compatible with new VS Code versions and fix bugs quickly.
    • Practical Productivity Gains:
      The extension should save you time or improve your coding quality in a meaningful way. For example, automating formatting or making debugging easier helps you work smarter, not harder.

    By focusing on these qualities, we picked extensions that provide real benefits without adding complexity. This way, you can boost your productivity and enjoy coding more, no matter your skill level.

    The 10 Essential VS Code Extensions

    1. Prettier – Code Formatter

    Prettier is a popular code formatter that automatically formats your code to keep it clean and consistent. Instead of spending time fixing indentation, spacing, or line breaks, Prettier does it for you every time you save your file. This helps avoid arguments about coding style when working with a team and makes your code easier to read.

    Prettier supports many languages like JavaScript, TypeScript, HTML, CSS, and more. Once installed, you can configure it to format your files automatically or run it manually when needed.

    2. ESLint

    ESLint is a tool that helps you write better JavaScript code by catching errors and enforcing coding standards. It scans your code for common mistakes like unused variables, missing semicolons, or incorrect syntax and highlights them immediately.

    Using ESLint early in development prevents bugs and keeps your code clean and consistent. It also supports custom rules, so teams can agree on coding styles and best practices.

    3. Live Server

    Live Server is a handy extension for web developers. It creates a local web server and automatically reloads your browser whenever you save changes to your HTML, CSS, or JavaScript files.

    This instant feedback loop means you don’t have to manually refresh your browser, making it faster and easier to test and see your changes in real-time. It’s especially useful when working on frontend projects or learning web development basics.

    4. GitLens — Git Supercharged

    GitLens takes the built-in Git features in VS Code to the next level. It helps you understand your code’s history by showing who last edited a line or block of code right inside the editor. This is called code authorship.

    With GitLens, you can:

    • See detailed commit histories without leaving VS Code
    • Compare changes between branches or commits
    • View inline blame annotations that show when and why a line was changed

    This makes working with Git easier and helps you track changes, especially when collaborating with others.


    5. Bracket Pair Colorizer 2

    Reading complex code can be tricky, especially when you have many nested brackets {}, [], or (). Bracket Pair Colorizer 2 helps by coloring matching pairs of brackets in different colors.

    This visual aid makes it much easier to:

    • Identify where code blocks start and end
    • Avoid missing or mismatched brackets that cause errors
    • Quickly navigate and understand nested code

    For beginners and pros alike, this small change improves code readability and reduces mistakes.


    6. Path Intellisense

    Path Intellisense saves you time when importing files or linking to resources in your project. As you start typing a file path, it automatically suggests file and folder names from your workspace.

    This helps you avoid:

    • Typing errors in paths
    • Having to remember exact file names or folder structures
    • Constantly switching between your editor and file explorer

    For example, when importing a JavaScript module or adding an image URL in HTML, Path Intellisense makes it quick and error-free.

    7. Debugger for Chrome

    Debugger for Chrome lets you debug your JavaScript code directly in Google Chrome while using VS Code. Instead of adding console.log statements and guessing what’s wrong, you can set breakpoints, step through code line by line, and inspect variables—all within your editor.

    This makes finding and fixing bugs faster and easier. For example, if your web app isn’t working as expected, you can pause execution right where the problem happens and see what’s going on in real time.


    8. REST Client

    If you work with APIs, REST Client is a real time-saver. It lets you send HTTP requests (GET, POST, PUT, DELETE) and view responses directly inside VS Code, without needing to switch to external tools like Postman.

    You simply write your request in a plain text file, click “Send Request,” and see the results right away. This makes testing and debugging APIs faster and keeps everything in one place.


    9. Settings Sync

    Settings Sync helps you keep your VS Code experience consistent across multiple devices. It syncs your settings, installed extensions, keybindings, and snippets through your GitHub or Microsoft account.

    This is especially useful if you work on different computers—like a desktop at home and a laptop on the go—because you don’t have to set up your environment from scratch every time.


    10. TODO Highlight

    TODO Highlight makes it easier to keep track of your unfinished tasks. It visually highlights comments like TODO and FIXME in your code, so they stand out.

    This helps you:

    • Quickly find what needs attention
    • Stay organized while working on large projects
    • Avoid forgetting important fixes or features

    For example, instead of scrolling through hundreds of lines, you can spot TODOs right away and prioritize your work.

    How to Install and Manage Extensions in VS Code

    Getting started with extensions in VS Code is easy, even if you’re a beginner. Here’s a simple guide to help you find, install, update, and manage extensions using the built-in Extensions panel.

    Searching and Installing Extensions

    1. Open the Extensions Panel:
      Click the square icon on the left sidebar or press Ctrl + Shift + X (Cmd + Shift + X on Mac).
    2. Search for an Extension:
      Use the search bar at the top to type the name or keyword of the extension you want. For example, type “Prettier” to find the Prettier formatter.
    3. Install the Extension:
      Click the Install button next to the extension in the search results. After a few seconds, the extension will be added to your VS Code.

    Updating Extensions

    • VS Code usually updates extensions automatically when new versions are available.
    • You can also manually update by going to the Extensions panel, clicking the gear icon ⚙️ next to an installed extension, and selecting Update if available.

    Disabling or Uninstalling Extensions

    • To disable an extension temporarily (if you want to test without it), click the gear icon ⚙️ and choose Disable.
    • To uninstall an extension completely, click the gear icon and select Uninstall.

    Managing Extension Settings

    • Some extensions have customizable settings. To adjust these, click the gear icon ⚙️ and select Extension Settings.
    • Here, you can tweak how the extension behaves to better fit your workflow.

    By mastering these simple steps, you can easily control which tools enhance your coding experience and keep your editor clean and efficient.

    You can explore and safely install all these extensions from the official VS Code Marketplace.

    Tips for Using VS Code Extensions Efficiently

    Using extensions can greatly improve your coding experience, but managing them well is just as important. Here are some practical tips to help you get the most out of your VS Code extensions:

    • Disable Unused Extensions:
      Having too many active extensions can slow down your editor. If you don’t need an extension all the time, disable it temporarily instead of uninstalling. This keeps your workspace fast and responsive.
    • Configure Extension Settings:
      Many extensions come with customizable settings. Take a few minutes to explore these options and adjust them to fit your workflow. For example, you can set Prettier to format code automatically on save or customize the colors in Bracket Pair Colorizer.
    • Keep Extensions Updated:
      Developers regularly release updates to fix bugs and add new features. Make sure to update your extensions often so you benefit from improvements and maintain compatibility with VS Code.
    • Avoid Installing Too Many Similar Extensions:
      Some extensions offer overlapping features. Choose the one that best fits your needs to avoid conflicts and clutter.
    • Use Extension Packs for Convenience:
      Some developers create extension packs that bundle useful tools together. These can be a quick way to set up your environment for specific languages or tasks.

    By following these tips, you’ll ensure your VS Code remains fast, organized, and perfectly tailored to your coding style.

    Conclusion

    Using the right VS Code extensions can make a big difference in your coding productivity and the quality of your work. The 10 extensions we covered—like Prettier for automatic formatting, ESLint for catching errors, and GitLens for powerful Git integration—help simplify common tasks and save you time.

    These tools are beginner-friendly and flexible, so you can customize your VS Code setup to match your personal workflow. Don’t hesitate to try them out one by one to see which ones fit your style best.

    If you have favorite extensions we didn’t mention or want to share your experiences, please leave a comment below. And if you found this guide helpful, consider subscribing to StayAhead.tech Weekly Newsletter for more practical tips to help you grow as a developer. Happy coding!

    Check out our other blog posts to keep leveling up.

  • How to Start a Career in Cloud Computing (Even Without a Tech Degree)

    How to Start a Career in Cloud Computing (Even Without a Tech Degree)

    You Don’t Need a Degree to Start a Cloud Career

    Cloud computing is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world today. From startups to global tech giants, every company is moving its infrastructure to the cloud — and they need skilled professionals to make that transition smooth and secure.

    You might think you need a computer science degree or years of technical experience to get started in cloud computing. That’s a common misconception — and it’s simply not true anymore.

    In reality, more and more companies are open to hiring people without formal degrees as long as they can demonstrate:

    • A basic understanding of cloud technologies
    • Hands-on skills with real platforms like AWS, Google Cloud, or Azure
    • A willingness to learn and adapt quickly

    Whether you’re a complete beginner, switching careers, or looking to level up in tech, you can absolutely build a successful cloud career — even if you’re starting from scratch.

    This guide will walk you through everything you need to know, step by step — from learning the basics to getting certified, building real projects, and landing your first job in the cloud.

    Let’s dive in.

    Why Cloud Computing Is a Great Career Choice

    If you’re wondering whether cloud computing is worth your time and effort — the answer is a big yes. It’s one of the most in-demand, future-proof career paths in tech today. Here’s why:


    Huge Industry Demand

    The cloud computing industry is growing faster than almost any other tech sector. According to Gartner, global cloud spending is expected to exceed $600 billion in 2025.

    Big companies like:

    • Amazon (AWS)
    • Google (Google Cloud Platform)
    • Microsoft (Azure)
    • IBM, Oracle, and others

    …are all building and expanding massive cloud platforms. And companies in every industry — healthcare, finance, retail, education — are moving their systems to the cloud.

    As a result, there’s a constant demand for people who understand how cloud systems work. Roles like:

    • Cloud Support Associate
    • Cloud Engineer
    • DevOps Engineer
    • Solutions Architect

    …are hiring at record pace.


    High Salaries & Remote Opportunities

    Cloud roles pay well — even at the entry level.

    Here’s a rough idea of beginner salaries (varies by location and company):

    • Cloud Support Associate: $55,000 – $75,000/year
    • Junior Cloud Engineer: $70,000 – $95,000/year
    • Cloud Consultant Intern: $20 – $35/hour

    As you gain experience and certifications, six-figure salaries become very realistic.

    Plus, many cloud roles are remote-friendly, which means you can work from anywhere. This flexibility makes it ideal if you’re looking for location freedom or a better work-life balance.


    You Don’t Need a Degree to Start

    One of the best things about cloud computing? You don’t need a computer science degree to get started.

    Tech companies are shifting toward skill-based hiring. They care more about what you can do than what’s written on your diploma. If you can:

    • Show hands-on experience with cloud tools
    • Build and explain small projects
    • Understand how cloud services work (even at a basic level)

    …you’re already ahead of most beginners.

    With free resources, online labs, and certifications, it’s never been easier to teach yourself and break into the cloud world — no expensive degree required.

    Understand the Cloud Basics First

    Before jumping into certifications or tools, it’s important to understand what cloud computing actually is. This will help everything else make more sense — especially if you’re coming from a non-technical background.


    What Is Cloud Computing?

    At its core, cloud computing means renting computing power and storage over the internet instead of owning physical servers.

    Imagine this:

    • Instead of buying a laptop to store your files, you upload them to Google Drive — that’s cloud storage.
    • Instead of running a website on your own server, you host it on Google Cloud or AWS — that’s cloud infrastructure.

    Companies use the cloud because it’s:

    • Scalable (you only pay for what you use)
    • Flexible (access from anywhere)
    • Cost-efficient (no need to manage physical hardware)

    Examples of popular cloud services:

    • Gmail (email on the cloud)
    • Netflix (video streaming from cloud servers)
    • Dropbox / Google Drive (file storage in the cloud)
    • Zoom (video calls using cloud-based infrastructure)

    The cloud powers everything — apps, websites, data, and even machine learning tools.

    Choose a Cloud Platform to Focus On

    There are many cloud platforms out there, and it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when you’re just starting out. The good news? You don’t need to learn them all.

    Start with one major platform, build a strong foundation, and you can always branch out later. The three most popular options are:

    • AWS (Amazon Web Services)
    • GCP (Google Cloud Platform)
    • Microsoft Azure

    Let’s quickly compare them.

    AWS vs GCP vs Azure (Quick Comparison)

    • AWS: Most popular and widely used with tons of job opportunities. Has many services but can be overwhelming for beginners. Free tier lasts 12 months but requires careful management to avoid charges.
    • Azure: Great if you’re familiar with Microsoft products. Popular in enterprise environments. Medium learning curve with a solid free tier.
    • GCP: Easiest to learn for beginners with a clean interface. Offers a generous $300 free credit and always-free services. Growing fast, especially in data and AI fields.

    Why GCP Is a Great Choice for Beginners

    If you’re completely new to cloud computing, Google Cloud Platform (GCP) is an excellent starting point. Here’s why:

    • Simple, modern user interface: GCP has a clean, intuitive dashboard that makes navigation easier for beginners.
    • Generous free tier: GCP gives you $300 in credits valid for 90 days, plus always-free usage on services like Cloud Functions, Compute Engine (f1-micro), and Cloud Storage.
    • Beginner-friendly documentation: Google has clear, well-organized tutorials and quickstarts — even interactive labs.
    • Focus on in-demand tech: GCP shines in areas like data engineering, machine learning, and DevOps — all high-growth career paths.

    Example: You can spin up a virtual machine, deploy a website, or run a Python script — all in the cloud — without spending a dime.

    While all platforms are valuable, starting with GCP can give you a smoother learning experience and help you build confidence early on.

    Learn the Skills That Matter

    To get started in cloud computing, there are some core technical skills you’ll need to learn. These basics will help you understand how cloud platforms work and prepare you for entry-level jobs.


    Core Technical Skills

    • Linux/CLI Basics:
      Many cloud systems run on Linux, and knowing how to use the command line interface (CLI) is essential for managing servers and automation.
    • Networking & Firewalls:
      Understanding concepts like IP addresses, ports, and firewalls helps you secure cloud resources and manage traffic.
    • IAM & Permissions:
      Identity and Access Management (IAM) controls who can access what in the cloud. Learning to set up roles and permissions keeps systems safe.
    • Monitoring & Logging:
      Keeping an eye on cloud services with tools that track performance and errors is key to maintaining reliability.
    • DevOps Tools (Basics):
      While optional at the start, knowing about Continuous Integration/Continuous Deployment (CI/CD) pipelines can boost your job prospects.

    Hands-On Practice Is Crucial

    Reading about cloud is important, but nothing beats actually using it.

    • Try cloud consoles like GCP’s Cloud Console or AWS Management Console.
    • Use free labs and sandbox environments to practice without risking costs.
    • Build small projects, like deploying a website or setting up a database.

    Hands-on experience not only reinforces what you learn but also looks great on your resume and in interviews.

    Get Certified (But Don’t Overdo It)

    Certifications can be a great way to prove your cloud knowledge, especially if you don’t have a formal degree. However, remember that certifications are just one part of your journey — real skills and experience matter most.


    Best Entry-Level Certifications

    Here are three widely recognized certifications that are perfect for beginners:

    • AWS Cloud Practitioner:
      Covers the basics of AWS cloud and is a good starting point for anyone interested in Amazon’s platform.
    • GCP Associate Cloud Engineer:
      Focuses on deploying and managing applications on Google Cloud — great if you choose GCP as your platform.
    • Azure Fundamentals:
      A beginner-friendly certification that introduces core Microsoft Azure concepts.

    Earning any of these certifications shows employers that you understand cloud fundamentals and are committed to learning.


    Study Resources for Certification

    You don’t need expensive courses to prepare — there are many free and paid resources available:

    • Google Cloud Skills Boost: Free hands-on labs and quests for GCP certifications.
    • Coursera & Udemy: Affordable courses with structured lessons and practice exams.
    • YouTube: Tons of free tutorials and walkthroughs from cloud experts.
    • Official Documentation: Cloud providers’ websites offer guides and sample questions.

    Combine study with hands-on practice to maximize your chances of success.

    Apply for Jobs and Keep Growing

    Once you’ve learned the basics, earned a certification, and built a few small projects — you’re ready to start applying for jobs. Remember, your first role doesn’t need to be perfect. What matters most is getting your foot in the door and continuing to grow.


    Target the Right Entry-Level Roles

    You don’t need to wait until you’re an expert to apply for jobs. Many cloud-related roles are beginner-friendly and focus more on your willingness to learn than your experience.

    Here are a few great options to look out for:

    • Cloud Support Engineer: Helps customers solve issues using cloud tools. A great learning role.
    • Cloud Intern or Trainee: Offers real-world experience in a structured environment.
    • Technical Support Analyst (with cloud skills): Not strictly a cloud role, but many companies prefer support staff who understand the cloud.

    These positions often serve as stepping stones to more technical roles like Cloud Engineer or Solutions Architect.


    Where to Look for Jobs

    Here are some job platforms that list beginner cloud roles:

    • LinkedIn Jobs: Filter by keywords like “cloud intern,” “cloud support,” or “associate cloud engineer.”
    • AngelList (now Wellfound): Great for startups, where you can wear many hats and learn fast.
    • Indeed: Search with filters for remote, entry-level, and cloud-related terms.
    • DevOpsJobs.io: Focuses on DevOps and cloud-related roles.

    Set up job alerts and check listings regularly — new opportunities appear every day.


    Keep Learning and Networking

    The cloud world evolves quickly, so staying updated is part of the job.

    Here’s how to stay connected and continue learning:

    • Join online communities: Subreddits like r/googlecloud or r/devops, and Discord or Slack channels for tech learners.
    • Attend virtual meetups or webinars: Cloud providers often host free events and hands-on workshops.
    • Follow industry professionals on LinkedIn: Engage with posts and share your learning journey to grow your network.

    Bonus tip: Share your projects, certification wins, and milestones online — it builds your personal brand and attracts recruiters.

    Conclusion: You Don’t Need a Degree — You Need a Plan

    Breaking into cloud computing may seem intimidating at first, especially without a traditional tech background. But the truth is — you don’t need a degree to succeed. What you really need is:

    • Curiosity to learn
    • A clear path to follow
    • Consistent effort and hands-on practice

    With free tools, beginner certifications, and growing demand for cloud talent, there’s never been a better time to start.

    So take that first step — pick a platform, build something small, and keep moving forward.


    ✅ What’s Next?

    • 📩 Subscribe to StayAhead.tech for more beginner-friendly guides and tutorials.
    • 💬 Comment below and share where you’re starting from — I’d love to hear your story.
    • 📖 Read next: Top Free Resources to Learn GCP in 2025