VS Code

How to Close a Folder in VSCode Guide

December 2, 2024

Managing your folders in Visual Studio Code (VSCode) is essential for maintaining an organized and efficient workspace. When working on multiple projects, knowing how to close a folder in VSCode can streamline your coding experience and reduce clutter.

This article dives into the process, ensuring that your VSCode interface remains clean and your development environment optimized.

By the end of this guide, you’ll have a clear understanding of:

Accessing the file explorer to manage open and closed folders
Using the command palette effectively
Adjusting your workspace settings and file management practices
Leveraging VSCode extensions to enhance folder management

You’ll also learn to navigate the VSCode sidebar efficiently, tweak the settings.json, and employ shortcut keys for quicker results. Stay with me, and you’ll become proficient in maintaining a tidy and focused coding environment in Microsoft VSCode.

How to Close a Folder in VSCode: Quick Workflow

To close a folder in Visual Studio Code (VSCode), follow these simple steps:

Open the File Menu: Click on the File tab located in the top menu bar.
Select Close Folder: From the dropdown menu, choose the Close Folder option. This will close the currently open project folder and return you to a blank workspace.

Alternatively, you can use a keyboard shortcut:

Press Ctrl + K, then F (on Windows/Linux) or Cmd + K, then F (on macOS) to quickly close the open folder.

If you have multiple folders in a workspace and want to close just one, you can right-click on the folder in the Explorer sidebar and select Remove Folder from Workspace, if applicable.These methods ensure that your workspace is cleared of any open folders, allowing you to start fresh with your projects.

Setting Up Workspaces in Visual Studio Code

maxresdefault How to Close a Folder in VSCode Guide

Creating and Managing Single-Folder Projects

Starting with single-folder projects in VS Code is straightforward. Let’s dive in.

Steps for opening a single-folder project

Navigate to the Explorer View on the sidebar.
Click the “Open Folder” button.
Select your desired project folder.
The folder is now open in VS Code, viewable in the Explorer.

Basic settings and adjustments for single-folder projects:

Adjust the workspace settings via settings.json to tailor your coding environment.
Customize the folder structure visible in the Explorer.
Utilize the command palette for quick access to project-specific commands.

Multi-Root Workspaces

Definition and benefits of multi-root workspaces

Multi-root workspaces allow you to work on multiple projects simultaneously within a single VS Code instance. This enhances productivity by keeping related projects together.

Benefits:

Streamlined project management.
Simplified navigation across multiple projects.
Consolidated workspace settings.

Scenarios where multi-root workspaces are advantageous

When working on large, interconnected projects.
Handling microservices architecture.
Simultaneous development of frontend and backend applications.

Adding Folders to Workspaces

Adding folders through “Add Folder to Workspace” command

Go to File > Add Folder to Workspace.
Choose the folder you wish to add.
The folder integrates seamlessly into the current workspace.

Drag-and-drop functionality for folder addition

Simply drag the desired folder into the VS Code window.
Drop it in the Explorer view to add it to the workspace.

Using command-line options for advanced folder management

Open the Integrated Terminal.
Use code . --add-folder followed by the folder path.

Removing Folders from a Workspace

Right-click on the folder in the Explorer view.
Select Remove Folder from Workspace.

Effects of removing folders on workspace configuration

The configuration remains intact; only the folder is removed.
Workspace settings specific to the removed folder are temporarily ignored but retained.

Saving and Reopening Workspaces

Using the “Save Workspace As…” command

Navigate to File > Save Workspace As....
Enter a name and save the .code-workspace file.

Options for opening saved workspaces in future sessions

Open the saved workspace via File > Open Workspace.
Double-click the saved .code-workspace file from your file system.
Customizing and Configuring Workspaces

Workspace File Schema

Explanation of the .code-workspace file and its structure

The .code-workspace file is your control center.

It’s a JSON file that defines your workspace’s configuration. Think of it as a blueprint.

Inside, you’ll find:

Folders: The projects you’re working on.
Settings: Custom tweaks specific to this workspace.
Extensions: Recommended plugins for your tasks.

It’s pivotal for managing multi-root workspaces.

Customizing folder display names within workspaces

Open your .code-workspace file.
Modify the "name" attribute within the "folders" array.
Update the display names for better organization in the Explorer view.

Workspace-Specific Settings

Defining global workspace settings and folder-specific settings

Two tiers here: global settings and folder-centric settings.

Global Settings: Affect the entire workspace. Tweak them in the "settings" section of your .code-workspace file.

Folder-Specific Settings: Make changes that apply strictly to one folder. Configure these within each folder’s settings.json.

Overriding user settings with workspace settings

Workspace settings take precedence over user settings.

For instance, you prefer 2-space indentation for your JavaScript projects within this workspace, update your .code-workspace file, and it overrides global settings.

Extension Recommendations and Management

Adding extension recommendations in extensions.json

Create an extensions.json in your .vscode directory.

Add recommended extensions:

{
  "recommendations": [
    "ms-vscode.vscode-typescript-tslint-plugin",
    "esbenp.prettier-vscode"
  ]
}

VS Code will suggest these when the workspace is opened.

Overview of extensions supporting multi-root workspaces

Extensions like:

GitLens: Enhances Git integration, indispensable for multi-root workspaces.
VSCode-icons: Adds vibrant icons to help distinguish between folders.
Path Intellisense: Autocompletes file paths, boosting productivity.
Navigating and Organizing Files in Visual Studio Code

The Explorer View

Overview of the Explorer view for managing files and folders

The Explorer view is your command center for navigating files and folders in VS Code. Located on the sidebar, it presents a hierarchical view of your project structure, giving you access to all files and directories.

Drag-and-drop file and folder organization

Move, organize, and restructure:

Drag a file, drop it into a new folder.
Drag a folder into another directory.
Reorder elements to suit your workflow.

Context menu options for file management (e.g., rename, delete)

Right-click to unlock a world of options:

Rename: Modify file names without breaking a sweat.
Delete: Clean up your project by removing unnecessary files.
New File/Folder: Quickly add resources to your workspace.

File and Folder Search Capabilities

Using the search function within the Explorer view

Streamline searches:

Hit Ctrl+Shift+F.
Enter your query.
Results appear, grouped by file, guiding you to the exact line.

Configuring files.exclude settings for customized search visibility

Customize your search:

Open your settings.json.
Insert "files.exclude": { "**/*.log": true, "**/node_modules": true } to exclude specific files/directories.

Outline View

Understanding the Outline view for file structure

The Outline view lays out the structure:

Located on the sidebar, it shows symbols like classes, functions, and variables.
It’s a snapshot of your file’s organizational schema.

Utilizing Outline for quick navigation within files

Quick access:

Click on any symbol in the Outline view.
Instantly navigate to its location in the code.
Efficient Workflow with Tabs, Editor Groups, and Windows

Tabs in Visual Studio Code

Enabling and managing multiple tabs for open files

Tabs are indispensable. Click on a file, and it springs open in a new tab, instant access to multiple files.

Enable multiple tabs: By default, VS Code opens files in tabs.
To manage: Drag to reorder. Right-click for more options—split, double-click to keep it pinned.

Customizing tab behavior (e.g., ordering, labels, and preview mode)

Fine-tune how tabs behave. Preview mode lets you quickly flick through files without cluttering your workspace with open tabs.

Ordering: Click and drag to structure them your way.
Labels: Shorten paths, manage preferences in settings.json.
Preview Mode: One-click peeks without permanent opens. Configure with "workbench.editor.enablePreview": true.

Working with Editor Groups

Overview of editor groups for split-screen editing

Visual Studio Code thrives on multitasking—Editor groups empower this. Split your screen, work side-by-side. Split right, left, up, or down—your choice.

Setting up multiple editor groups for side-by-side file comparison

Side-by-Side:

Open a file.
Right-click tab > Split Right.
Now, another file sits beside it. Code, compare, rinse, repeat.

Customizing the layout of editor groups (vertical, horizontal)

Editable layout:

Vertical: Perfect for line-by-line comparisons. Ideal for markdown on one side, rendered view on the other.
Horizontal: One file on top, another below. Navigate using the split options in the view.

Floating Windows

Moving editors to floating windows for flexible layout

Need more screen real estate? Float that window.

Flexible Layout: Detach an editor by dragging it out of the main window.

Scenarios and configurations for floating windows

Scenarios where this shines:

Multi-monitor setups: Move the editor to a separate screen.
Isolate a task: Have your main project in the primary window, debug consoles floating separately.

Using Minimap and Sticky Scroll

Overview of minimap as a navigation tool

The Minimap is a compact view of your code—a quick look at the entire file. Enabled by default, it sits on the right.

Customizing Sticky Scroll to enhance code navigation

Enhancement:

Sticky Scroll keeps key function definitions in view while you scroll.
To customize, tweak in settings.json with "editor.stickyScroll.enabled": true.
Advanced Sidebar and Navigation Features

Primary Side Bar and Secondary Side Bar for enhanced navigation

The Primary Side Bar is where you’ll find the Explorer view, Source Control, and other essential panels. It’s your go-to for accessing project files.

Secondary Side Bar adds an extra layer of navigability. Need to switch views quickly? Pop it open for instant access to frequently-used panels.

Options for customizing sidebar visibility and location

Toggle it on or off. Adjust its position. Everything is tailored through the View menu. You want it on the left? Move it left. Prefer it on the right? Switch it up. All changes are under Settings.

Selecting multiple files or folders for batch actions

Multi-selection is key for efficiency.

Hold Ctrl (Windows) or Cmd (Mac) and click.
Select multiple files or folders.
Perform batch operations like delete or move.

Advanced filtering and search options within the Explorer view

Filter chaos, find order:

Use the search bar at the top of the Explorer.
Customize with files.exclude in settings.json to hide irrelevant files.
Advanced filters are magic for large projects, cutting down on visual clutter.

Timeline View

Overview of Timeline view for tracking file history

Timeline View is a time machine. It tracks edits, both local and from Git commits.

View changes over time.
Compare file versions.
Found under the Explorer, its icon looks like a clock.

Using the local history and Git commit history

Local history and Git commingled:

Local: See all edits since the file’s creation.
Git: Track commit history, who changed what and when.

Command Palette for Quick Access

Navigating files, symbols, and commands with the Command Palette

Command Palette is your Swiss Army knife, accessed by pressing Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+P (Mac). Type commands directly, and execute them in a flash. Jump to files, symbols, or specific settings.

Common commands and shortcuts available in the Command Palette

Streamline your workflow. Here are your favorites:

>Open File: Quickly jump to any file.
>Git: Clone: Clone a repository instantly.
>Terminal: New Terminal: Open a terminal within seconds.
Configuring the Visual Studio Code User Interface

UI Basics and Main Components

Explanation of the primary UI areas (Editor, Status Bar, Activity Bar)

Visual Studio Code is a playground of possibilities, and it all starts with understanding the layout.

Editor: This is where the magic happens. Your code lives here, highlighted and indented, making hours of staring at the screen somewhat bearable.

Status Bar: Found at the bottom, it’s your operations center. Glance down to see Git branch info, errors, warnings, and your line number.

Activity Bar: On the side, holding the Explorer view, Source Control, Extensions… It’s your compass, guiding you through various terrains of the project.

Adjusting visibility and positioning of UI elements

Customization is key.

Toggle elements: Don’t need the Activity Bar? Remove it through View > Appearance > Show Activity Bar.
Move elements: Want the Status Bar at the top? Not possible natively, but extensions like Custom CSS and JS Loader can make it happen.
Resizing: Drag edges of side bars, center panels. Fit it all in like Tetris.

Customizing the Editor for Focused Coding

Enabling Zen Mode for distraction-free coding

Unlock Zen Mode with Ctrl+K Z (Windows) or Cmd+K Z (Mac).

All distractions evaporate.
No Activity Bar, no Status Bar.
Just you and your code, in a minimalist haven.

Using Centered Editor Layout for single-focus workflows

Center yourself:

Set the Editor to be smack dab in the middle.
Hit View > Appearance > Toggle Centered Layout.
Perfect for single-file focus. No sidebars to wander into your peripheral vision.

Configuring Editor Settings for Individual Projects

Difference between user settings and workspace settings

User settings are your global defaults. Always there, unless overridden.

Workspace settings? They’re tailored. Specific to the project you’re knee-deep in. Override without disturbing global peace.

Settings.json: Where these settings converge.

Editing settings directly through settings.json for project-specific adjustments

Direct tweaks are the game changer:

Open your project.
Navigate to .vscode/settings.json.

Add or edit settings like:

{
  "editor.tabSize": 4,
  "files.exclude": {
    "**/*.log": true,
    "**/node_modules": true
  }
}

Project now dances to its own tune.
Managing Source Control and Debugging Across Workspaces

Integrating Source Control in Multi-Root Workspaces

Overview of the SOURCE CONTROL PROVIDERS section

Let’s talk Source Control Providers. You’ll find it nestled in the Activity Bar.

Git, SVN, or any source control tools you rely on, it’s all here. With multi-root workspaces, you see the status of each repository separately. Repos side by side, each with its own branch status and changes.

Accessing and managing repositories within a multi-root workspace

Working with multiple projects? No problem.

Open the Source Control view.
Each folder here represents a repository.
Make changes, commit, or push for each one individually. You’re the master of your version control universe.

Multi-root workspaces mean you see each repo distinctly but can switch between them seamlessly.

Debugging Configurations in Workspaces

Setting up workspace-specific debug configurations

Debugging is a necessity. And VSCode? It’s well-equipped.

Head to the Run and Debug view.
In multi-root workspaces, configure debugging separately for each project.

Add .vscode/launch.json and define configurations:

{
  "version": "0.2.0",
  "configurations": [
    {
      "name": "Launch Program",
      "type": "node",
      "request": "launch",
      "program": "${workspaceFolder}/app.js"
    }
  ]
}

Managing launch configurations and compound launch settings

Sometimes, one config isn’t enough. Enter compound configurations:

Combine multiple debug sessions.
Useful for client-server environments.

Define in launch.json:

{
  "compounds": [
    {
      "name": "Run All",
      "configurations": ["Launch API", "Launch Client"]
    }
  ]
}

Run Run All, and both debug sessions ignite simultaneously.

Configuring scoped variables for debugging sessions

Scoped variables personalize your debug experience:

Tailor variables to specific configurations.
Useful for environment-specific paths or credentials.

Example:

{
  "configurations": [
    {
      "name": "Launch Program",
      "type": "node",
      "request": "launch",
      "program": "${workspaceFolder}/app.js",
      "env": {
        "NODE_ENV": "development"
      }
    }
  ]
}

Task Management and Automation in Workspaces

Defining Workspace-Specific Tasks

Setting up tasks.json files for automated workflows

Automation is a lifesaver. Start by configuring tasks.json.

Open or create .vscode/tasks.json within your workspace. Define tasks to streamline repetitive processes:

{
  "version": "2.0.0",
  "tasks": [
    {
      "label": "build",
      "type": "shell",
      "command": "npm run build",
      "group": "build",
      "presentation": {
        "reveal": "always"
      }
    }
  ]
}

This JSON snippet sets up a build task. Simple, effective.

Autodetecting tasks across folders in a multi-root workspace

Multi-root workplaces shine with auto-detection. VSCode sniffs out tasks configured within each project folder.

Integrated Terminal and Task Runner automatically compile these tasks.
No need to manually config them in every project—a true timesaver.

Configuring Shell and Process Type Tasks

Using shell and process tasks for multi-folder projects

Shell tasks vs. process tasks, two sides of the same coin. Shell tasks let you execute command-line instructions directly:

{
  "type": "shell",
  "command": "echo Hello, World!"
}

Process tasks, on the other hand, call executables. Perfect for more complex automation within multi-folder setups.

Examples of common tasks for development workflows (e.g., build, test)

Useful tasks: build, test, lint, you name it.

Build Task:

{
  "label": "build",
  "type": "npm",
  "script": "build"
}

Test Task:

{
  "label": "test",
  "type": "npm",
  "script": "test"
}

Lint Task:

{
  "label": "lint",
  "type": "shell",
  "command": "npm run lint"
}

FAQ on How To Close A Folder In VSCode

How do I close a folder in VSCode?

To close a folder in VSCode, simply click on the open folder in the file explorer pane, right-click, and select “Close Folder.”

Alternatively, you can use the command palette by pressing Ctrl+Shift+P, typing “Close Folder,” and hitting Enter. This keeps your workspace tidy and manageable.

What are the shortcut keys to close a folder in VSCode?

You can use Ctrl+K followed by F to close a folder quickly in Visual Studio Code. This shortcut helps you save time and maintains your code editor environment free from unnecessary clutter, which is crucial for efficient project management.

Can I close multiple folders at once?

VSCode allows you to manage multiple folders within a single workspace. However, each folder must be closed individually through the file explorer or the command palette. This ensures you have full control over which directories remain active or closed in your coding environment.

What happens to open files when I close a folder?

When you close a folder in VSCode, the associated files remain open. This way, you can continue working on them without the folder appearing in the file explorer. To close these files too, you can manually close each tab or use the “Close All” option in the tab bar.

Will my settings get reset if I close a folder?

Closing a folder does not reset any of your workspace settings in Visual Studio Code. Your customizations and configurations in settings.json remain intact. This ensures that once you reopen the folder, your settings are consistent with your previous work environment.

How do I reopen a previously closed folder?

To reopen a previously closed folder, use the file menu by selecting “File” > “Open Folder” and navigate to your desired directory. Alternatively, use Ctrl+O to quickly access the folder. This allows for seamless navigation between your coding projects.

Where can I find the “Close Folder” option in the GUI?

In VSCode’s interface, the “Close Folder” option is found in the file explorer. Right-click on the active folder’s name and select “Close Folder.” This action can also be done via the command palette by searching for “Close Folder.”

Is there a way to automate folder management?

Automating folder management can be achieved through extensions available in the VSCode marketplace. Extensions like “Project Manager” help you switch between projects easily, providing a streamlined way to manage and close folders within your development environment.

Can closing a folder affect my version control settings?

Closing a folder in VSCode does not affect your version control settings. Your Git configurations, repositories, and other source control settings remain unaffected. All version control actions resume once you reopen the folder associated with your project.

What’s the difference between “Close Folder” and “Remove Folder from Workspace”?

“Close Folder” will close the folder and remove it from the file explorer pane, while “Remove Folder from Workspace” is used when multiple folders are open in a single workspace. The latter only removes the folder from the current workspace configuration without closing the VSCode window.

Conclusion

Knowing how to close a folder in VSCode is essential for maintaining an organized and efficient workspace. This straightforward action helps you manage open directories, ensuring an uncluttered coding environment. By using the file explorer and command palette, you can quickly close folders without disrupting your workflow.

Key takeaways from managing folder closure in Visual Studio Code include:

Seamlessly accessing and using file explorer options.
Streamlining operations with the command palette.
Utilizing shortcut keys for speed and efficiency (Ctrl+K F).
Ensuring continuity of workspace settings and configurations.
Enhancing folder management through relevant extensions.

By mastering these techniques, you can keep your VSCode interface tidy and focus more on your coding tasks. Applying these strategies simplifies navigation and optimizes your development environment, ultimately boosting productivity.

If you liked this article about how to close a folder in VSCode, you should check out this article about how to open VSCode from terminal.

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Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan is a seasoned web designer and tech strategist, with a keen eye on emerging industry trends.

With over a decade in the tech field, Bogdan blends technical expertise with insights on business innovation in technology.

A regular contributor to TMS Outsource's blog, where you'll find sharp analyses on software development, tech business strategies, and global tech dynamics.