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As a programmer, your IDE is probably your most important app running.
You spend so much time using it, writing and debugging code.
These IDEs are Visual Studio Code and PyCharm.
But first, lets establish what an IDE is and why it is a good idea to use.
What is an IDE?
An IDE is an Integrated Development Environment.
It is basically an system that you use to develop software.
These nice-to-have features have become commonplace nowadays that any good IDE should include them.
These include:
Both Visual Studio Code and PyCharm include these features by default.
Why Should You Use an IDE?
What is VS Code?
Visual Studio Codeor VS Code is an open-source code editor by Microsoft.
It is incredibly popular as it is free, versatile, and easy to use.
It can be installed on any computer, be it Windows, Mac, or Linux.
In addition, it’s possible for you to use it online and edit local files.
While the online version is less-featured than the desktop version, it is still decently usable.
Regularly changing my theme also keeps the IDE interesting.
This terminal is incredibly useful and convenient.
This could be a remote server somewhere or a Windows Subsystem for Linux.
This can be very convenient at times.
It supports many coding languages right out of the box.
If the language you are working with is not supported.
Theres a marketplace for extensions where you will probably find an extension to help you.
These features are why I recommend using Visual Studio Code to anyone.
What is PyCharm?
PyCharmis an IDE for developing with Python made by JetBrains.
JetBrains also created popular IDEs like IntelliJ for Java and WebStorm for JavaScript development.
With the community edition, you could create Python and HTML files.
As you would expect, PyCharm can be installed on Windows, Mac, or Linux.
The installation process is simple.
It is easy to create a new project and configure a virtual environment.
It is equally as easy to create new files and add them to your project.
you could add packages by searching for them in the packages toolbar.
Running your program is a matter of just pressing a Run button.
This makes it easier to verify if your variables have the expected state as your program progresses.
Ultimately it simplifies your debugging and makes you more productive.
In addition, it can be frustrating when you mistype a command.
PyCharm comes with a built-in toolbar for Version control.
PyCharm Vs.
Visual Studio Code
The Verdict: Which One Should You Use?
I like Visual Studio Codes versatility, large ecosystem, and free cost.
I like how beginner-friendly and how minimal the installation of PyCharm is.
As a result, my personal favorite is Visual Studio Code.
Learning Resources
IDEs are incredibly useful tools for developers.
However, tools are only useful to the extent you could use them effectively.
You will learn to find your way around the interface and set up a workspace with Git and GitHub.
This course will help you establish a solid foundation for learning more advanced concepts later.
You will also learn how to navigate around the editor and use keyboard shortcuts to make you more productive.
You will learn how to refactor your code and convert functions and export them.
These features range from database support, version control, debugging support,code refactoring, and managing projects.
Final Words
This article discussed what an IDE is and why you should probably get one.
In addition, we compared two popular IDEs for Python developers, Visual Studio Code and PyCharm.
Lastly, we listed useful resources to help you to learn how to use your IDE more effectively.
Next, check out the bestPython IDEto supercharge development and debugging.
