How to Format Code in VSCode Like a Pro

Understanding how to format code in VSCode is crucial for any developer aiming to maintain code readability and consistency across projects. If you’ve ever faced issues with unstructured or messy code, this guide is for you.

Visual Studio Code offers a suite of powerful tools—from Prettier and ESLint to built-in formatting options—which streamline your workflow and enhance productivity.

As we delve into this topic, I will walk you through the essential steps and customizations needed to make the most out of VSCode’s formatting features.

By the end of this article, you’ll know how to configure user settings, utilize shortcut keys, and leverage extensions from the VS Code Marketplace for languages like JavaScript and Python.

How to Format Code in VSCode Like a Pro: Quick Workflow

Built-in Formatting Features

Keyboard Shortcuts

VSCode has convenient keyboard shortcuts for formatting your code:

• Format Document:
  • Windows: Shift + Alt + F
  • Mac: Shift + Option + F
  • Linux: Ctrl + Shift + I

This command formats the entire document according to the default formatter set in VSCode.

Format on Save

Enabling Format on Save automatically formats your code every time you save the file. To enable this feature:

1. Open the settings by pressing Ctrl + , (Windows/Linux) or Command + , (Mac).
2. Search for Editor: Format On Save and check the box to enable it.

Format on Type

You can also enable Format on Type, which formats your code as you type. This is particularly useful for languages that require specific syntax. To enable it:

1. Go to settings and search for Editor: Format On Type.
2. Check the box to activate it.

Using Prettier for Advanced Formatting

Installing Prettier

For more advanced formatting options, install the Prettier extension:

1. Open the Extensions view by clicking on the Extensions icon in the Activity Bar or pressing Ctrl + Shift + X.
2. Search for “Prettier – Code formatter” and click Install.

Configuring Prettier

After installing, configure Prettier as your default formatter:

1. Open the Command Palette with Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows/Linux) or Command + Shift + P (Mac).
2. Type Format Document With… and select Configure Default Formatter.
3. Choose Prettier – Code Formatter from the list.

Creating a Configuration File

To ensure consistent formatting across your team, create a .prettierrc configuration file in your project root. This file can include various settings such as tab width, single vs double quotes, and trailing commas, ensuring everyone uses the same formatting rules.

Automating Formatting with Prettier

To automate formatting with Prettier:

• Enable Format on Save as mentioned earlier.
• You can also configure Prettier to format on paste by checking the Format On Paste option in the settings.

Conclusion

By leveraging VSCode’s built-in features alongside the Prettier extension, you can maintain clean, readable code effortlessly. This setup not only enhances individual productivity but also promotes consistency within teams, making collaboration smoother and reducing merge conflicts caused by formatting discrepancies.

Getting Started with Code Formatting in VS Code

Keyboard Shortcuts and Command Palette

When diving into code formatting in Visual Studio Code, keyboard shortcuts can be a lifesaver. For document formatting, Ctrl+Shift+I is the default. This shortcut quickly tidies up an entire document, making your code neat and readable.

Using the Command Palette for Accessing Formatting Commands

Accessing formatting commands via the Command Palette is equally efficient. Simply press Ctrl+Shift+P to open the Command Palette, then type “format” to see a list of formatting commands available. This can be particularly useful when configuring or executing specific formatting tasks.

Setting up the Format Document Command

To make your coding workflow seamless, setting up the Format Document Command is essential. This involves configuring a default formatter for different file types and ensuring it kicks in automatically where needed.

Configuring Default Formatters for Different File Types

First, configure your default formatters in settings.json. Navigate to the settings and specify the formatter for different languages. This ensures VS Code knows which tool to use when tidying up your Python, JavaScript, or HTML files. For instance:

"[javascript]": {
    "editor.defaultFormatter": "esbenp.prettier-vscode"
}

Here, Prettier is set as the default formatter for JavaScript.

Choosing Prettier or Other Formatters as the Default Setting

Choosing Prettier or another preferred formatter depends on your team’s guidelines or your personal coding style. Prettier, known for its efficiency as a code beautifier, is a popular choice. Install it through the Extensions panel, configure it in settings.json, and voila! You’re set.

By correctly setting up these configurations, you’ll ensure that your code formatting is consistent and automatic across different projects, saving you time and headache.

Automatic Code Formatting Options

Enabling Format on Save and Format on Paste

Automatic code formatting can significantly streamline your workflow. Format on Save and Format on Paste are features in Visual Studio Code that can enhance coding efficiency.

Benefits of Automatic Formatting for Workflow

Automatic formatting removes the burden of manual tidying. This means no more worrying about alignment or code consistency. Your code stays clean, improving readability and reducing errors. Developer productivity soars when mundane tasks get automated.

Steps to Enable Format on Save in Settings

To enable Format on Save, navigate to your settings:

1. Open settings.json.
2. Add or modify the following line:

    "editor.formatOnSave": true
   

This ensures every save action triggers the formatter, making code consistent.

Triggering Formatting on Specific Actions

Visual Studio Code offers flexibility. Formatting can be triggered not just on save but on other specific actions like typing and pasting.

Format on Type, Save, and Paste Configurations

Format on Type is useful for languages where structure is key, such as Python or XML. Configure it in settings.json:

"editor.formatOnType": true

For Format on Paste, add:

"editor.formatOnPaste": true

These settings mean pasting large code blocks won’t result in a mess. The code editor tools in VSCode ensure everything aligns perfectly.

Additional Options for Customizing Trigger Actions

VSCode allows further customization. You can choose different actions to trigger formatting:

• Specific formatting commands in the Command Palette.
• Multi-cursor selections for bulk edits.
• Keyboard shortcuts adjusted in your keybindings.json.

Each of these actions can activate formatters like Prettier or ESLint, enhancing overall coding efficiency.

Using Prettier for Code Formatting in VS Code

Overview of Prettier Extension

Prettier: it’s not just a pretty face for your code. This beast of a code formatter rules the roost when it comes to maintaining code quality and integrity.

Key Features of Prettier as a Code Formatter

• It enforces consistent style rules.
• Automatically handles indentation, spaces vs. tabs, and code styles.
• Supports a boatload of languages: JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, HTML, CSS, JSON – you name it.

Installing Prettier from the Extensions Panel

To get started, head to the VSCode Extensions panel. Type “Prettier” into the search bar. Hit install. Boom, you’re ready to prettify your codebase.

Customizing Prettier Configuration

Prettier is custom-friendly. This means you can adjust settings until your code sings your tune.

Adjusting Common Settings

Head to settings.json. Here, you can tweak everything. Want single quotes instead of double? Set "singleQuote": true. Prefer tab width of 4 instead of 2? Add "tabWidth": 4. Hate pesky semicolons? Set "semi": false.

Creating a .prettierrc Configuration File for Team-Wide Consistency

For team projects, use a .prettierrc file. Place it in your project root. This config file keeps everyone on the same page.

Example .prettierrc:

{
  "singleQuote": true,
  "tabWidth": 2,
  "semi": false
}

Formatting Code on Save with Prettier

Ensure Prettier keeps things tidy every time you save a file.

Activating Format on Save for Prettier

To activate format on save, go to settings.json and add:

"editor.formatOnSave": true

Don’t forget to set Prettier as your default formatter:

"[javascript]": {
  "editor.defaultFormatter": "esbenp.prettier-vscode"
}

Remember, how to format code in VSCode efficiently depends on these small but crucial settings.

Verifying the Auto-Format Feature with HTML, JSON, and Other Files

Language-Specific Formatting Extensions

JavaScript, TypeScript, JSON, HTML, and CSS Formatting

Visual Studio Code comes packed with default formatters for these popular web languages. Let’s jump into what it offers before moving on to more specialized tools.

Overview of VS Code’s Default Formatters for Each Language

• JavaScript & TypeScript: Default formatter gets you standardized code appearance with a single click.
• JSON: Automatic corrections maintain the structure and readability.
• HTML & CSS: Basic formatting ensures clean and tidy markup and styles.

But let’s be honest, default settings might not always cut it.

Switching to Prettier or Another Preferred Formatter in Settings

Go to settings.json and tweak:

"[javascript]": {
  "editor.defaultFormatter": "esbenp.prettier-vscode"
}

This example switches JavaScript formatting to Prettier. It’s versatile and ensures code beautification for different types of projects.

Python Code Formatting with Black

Python developers, rejoice! Black is your formatter of choice, and here’s the lowdown.

Installing Microsoft’s Python Extension and Black Formatter

First, install the Python extension from Microsoft through the VS Code Marketplace. After that’s set, get Black:

1. Open the Extensions panel.
2. Search for “Black”.
3. Hit install.

Configuring Black for Format on Save and Selecting it as the Default Formatter

Open settings.json again:

"python.formatting.provider": "black",
"editor.formatOnSave": true

This setup ensures Black automatically formats every save. Python code stays consistent and pristine across your team.

Adding Other Formatters through the VS Code Marketplace

Customization is key in web development. Depending on what you’re working on, you might need specific formatters.

Identifying Additional Formatters Based on Project Needs

Search formatters like:

• PHP Intelephense: For PHP projects.
• Go Formatter: Essential for Go language.

Ensuring Compatibility with Format on Save and Other Settings

Any new formatter should gel with your existing settings. Add it to settings.json:

"[php]": {
  "editor.defaultFormatter": "bmewburn.vscode-intelephense-client"
}

Advanced Code Formatting Features in VS Code

Multi-Cursor and Selection-Based Formatting

Multi-cursor magic can transform the mundane into a productivity powerhouse. Imagine the power of editing multiple lines, simultaneously. That’s multi-cursor for you.

Using Multi-Cursor Selections to Apply Formatting to Multiple Areas

Hold down Alt, then click in all the places you want cursors. Start typing or apply your formatting command. It’s like weaving individual threads into a unified fabric of code. This could be aligning variables, fixing up indentation, or adding comments.

Configuring Multi-Cursor Modifier Keys for Easier Multi-Selection Editing

Need easier access? Customize your multi-cursor modifier keys. Go to your keybindings.json and adjust:

{
    "key": "ctrl+d",
    "command": "editor.action.addSelectionToNextFindMatch",
    "when": "editorTextFocus"
}

Or:

{
    "key": "ctrl+shift+click",
    "command": "editor.action.insertCursorAtEndOfEachLineSelected",
    "when": "editorTextFocus"
}

You can now select multiple instances or lines without breaking a sweat.

Column (Box) Selection Mode

Vertical selections can save the day when you’re dealing with, say, aligned columns of data.

Steps to Enable and Use Box Selection for Vertical Formatting Edits

It’s simple. Press Ctrl+Shift+Alt and drag your mouse to make box selections. Edit vertically just like you would horizontally. Clean, quick, and highly effective.

Customizing Shortcuts for Column Select Actions

Want a different key combo? Customize in keybindings.json:

{
    "key": "ctrl+shift+q",
    "command": "editor.action.toggleColumnSelection",
    "when": "editorTextFocus"
}

Set it to whatever feels smooth for you. Efficiency is key.

Shrink/Expand Selection Commands

Code selection can be a breeze with the right commands.

Commands for Adjusting Selection Scope (e.g., Shift+Alt+Left/Right)

Use Shift+Alt+Right to expand your selection by syntax nodes (think tags, braces, brackets).

Conversely, Shift+Alt+Left shrinks that selection. It’s all about precision and saving time.

Use Cases for Rapid Code Block Selection Adjustments

• Need to refactor a function? Expand to select the function block.
• Isolate nested elements? Shrink to get just the core.

This nuanced control helps ensure cleaner, streamlined coding sessions.

Managing and Configuring Indentation

Customizing Indentation Preferences

Indentation. Big deal, right? Yet, it can make or break your code readability.

Setting Spaces vs. Tabs in User/Workspace Settings

Spaces or tabs? The age-old debate. Head to settings.json to make your call.

"editor.insertSpaces": true, 
"editor.tabSize": 2

Here, you switch to spaces and set a tab size of 2 spaces. Change true to false if you’re all about those tabs.

Choosing Indentation Size for Each Language or File Type

Different strokes for different folks. For JavaScript, you might want 2 spaces, while for Python, maybe 4. Customize per language:

"[javascript]": {
    "editor.tabSize": 2
},
"[python]": {
    "editor.tabSize": 4
}

This keeps things from getting out of hand.

Auto-Detection of Indentation Settings

How VS Code Determines Indentation Automatically

VSCode tries to play detective with your code. It looks at existing indentation and tries to follow suit. Sometimes it gets it right. Sometimes, well, not so much.

Adjusting Settings to Override Auto-Detected Indentation

Override the detective work if it’s off-track. Go to settings.json and set:

"editor.detectIndentation": false

Now VSCode sticks to what you tell it — consistency in code style.

Ensuring Consistency Across Teams with Configurations

Collaboration. It’s messy without ground rules.

Setting Up .editorconfig for Shared Indentation Rules

Enter .editorconfig. A nifty way to enforce indentation across team projects. Add a .editorconfig file in your project root.

root = true

[*]
indent_style = space
indent_size = 2

This example sets spaces with a size of 2 across the board. Everyone’s editor respects the rules laid down here.

Applying Consistent Indentation Settings in Team Projects

Consistency isn’t just for solo coders. Ensure everyone’s on the same page with VS Code’s workspace settings.

{
    "editor.insertSpaces": true,
    "editor.tabSize": 2,
    "editor.detectIndentation": false
}

Finding and Replacing Text with Consistent Formatting

Basic Find and Replace Functionality

Finding and fixing things quickly is essential. Let’s dive right in.

Opening the Find Widget with Ctrl+F

Press Ctrl+F. Bam. The Find Widget appears.

Search for text across your open file. Simple. Direct. Effective.

Navigating Search Results and Replacing Text in Files

Results show up instantly. Use Enter or Shift+Enter to jump through them.

Found it? Replace it right there. Apply changes seamlessly without missing a beat.

Advanced Find Options for Formatting Consistency

Sometimes basic just doesn’t cut it. Let’s go advanced.

Matching Case, Whole Words, and Using Regular Expressions

Need more precision? Click the icons in the Find Widget:

• Aa: Match Case
• Ab: Match Whole Word
• .*..: Use Regular Expressions

Regular expressions can be life-saving. Matching patterns make bulk editing smoother.

Preserving Case in Replace Operations

Replacing but need to keep the case? Use:

Ctrl+H

For replace-with-preserved-case. Your formatting remains intact.

Multi-File Search and Replace

Now, imagine doing this across multiple files.

Searching Across Files in the Current Workspace with Ctrl+Shift+F

Hit Ctrl+Shift+F. Welcome to the grand stage of workspace-wide search.

Type your query. See results from every file. Productivity skyrockets.

Using Glob Patterns to Narrow or Expand Search Scope

Too many results? Refine with glob patterns:

*.js

To search only JavaScript files. Or:

src/**/*.{js,ts}

To include all JavaScript and TypeScript files in src. Fine-tune to your project’s needs.

Mastery in search and replace can save hours. Perfect for maintaining code quality and integrity.

Folding and Organizing Code for Improved Readability

Code Folding Basics

Folding code isn’t just a trick—it’s a necessity for clean, readable code.

Folding Shortcuts

Let’s get to the basics. You need shortcuts.

• Ctrl+Shift+[ folds the current region.
• Ctrl+Shift+] unfolds the current region.

Folding hides complexity and lets you focus on the big picture.

Configuring Automatic Folding Behavior for Specific Languages

Set up automatic folding for different languages.

Head to settings.json:

"[javascript]": {
    "editor.folding": true,
    "editor.foldingStrategy": "indentation"
}

VS Code respects the structure of your code, tucking it away when you don’t need to see it.

Folding Level and Custom Fold Markers

Not all folds are created equal.

Setting Fold Levels and Applying Markers for Specific Sections

Set fold levels for better control:

"editor.foldLevel": 2

Markers give you precise folding where it matters.

Add comments like //#region and //#endregion to create custom foldable sections in your code.

Available Syntax-Aware Folding for Common Languages

Different languages, different rules.

For Python:

"editor.foldingStrategy": "indentation"

For HTML:

"editor.foldingStrategy": "auto"

VS Code respects syntax and lets you create an organized workspace at the drop of a hat.

Managing Folding Regions with Manual and Auto-Folding

Take control with manual folds or let VS Code do the heavy lifting.

Creating Manual Folding Ranges for Custom Selections

Select the code you want to fold. Use Ctrl+Shift+P, type “Fold Selection”, and hit enter.

Manual control gives you the power to tidy up non-standard sections.

Adjusting Folding Settings for Improved Code Overview

Fine-tune your settings:

"editor.foldingImportsByDefault": true

This collapses import statements automatically, reducing clutter.

Folding effectively organizes your code, maintaining readability and improving efficiency. Now you’re one step closer to mastering how to format code in VSCode.

File Encoding and Comparison Features

Adjusting File Encoding for Compatibility

File encoding can be a real game-changer. Different projects? Different encodings. Here’s how to keep things in sync.

Setting Encoding Globally or Per Workspace

Start with global settings for consistency. Pop open your settings.json and add:

"files.encoding": "utf8"

But sometimes, a workspace needs its own thing. For that, go into your workspace’s settings.json and add:

"files.encoding": "utf8"

Changing Encoding from the Status Bar in Open Files

Quick tweaks? Look down at the status bar. Click on the encoding label (usually says UTF-8). Change it on-the-fly for the current file. Easy. Practical.

Using File Comparison Tools

One file vs. another. Let’s dissect the differences.

Comparing the Current File with a Workspace File or Clipboard

Need to compare what’s in your clipboard with a file? It’s possible.

1. Open your file.
2. Ctrl+Shift+P brings up the Command Palette.
3. Type “Compare Active File With Clipboard”. Done and dusted.

Using the Command Palette for Quick File Comparisons

Command Palette is your buddy. Ctrl+Shift+P again. Type “Compare” and see:

• Compare Active File With Opened File.
• Compare Active File With Clipboard.

Click and the comparison view splits your editor right there.

Steps to Compare Any Two Files from the Explorer or Command Line

Dragging files around can be tedious. Do this instead:

1. Right-click a file in the Explorer.
2. Select Select for Compare.
3. Right-click the second file.
4. Choose Compare with Selected.

Or, from the command line:

code --diff file1.js file2.js

Troubleshooting Common Formatting Issues in VS Code

Auto-Format Not Working

Auto-format fails? Frustrating, right?

Checking the Configuration of Format on Save and Format on Type

First, check your settings. Is Format on Save enabled?

Open settings.json:

"editor.formatOnSave": true,
"editor.formatOnType": true

Make sure both are set properly. Minor tweaks can save a lot of headaches.

Resolving Issues with Specific Formatters (e.g., Prettier, Black)

Sometimes it’s not the settings, but the formatter itself. Using Prettier or Black?

Check if the right extension is enabled:

• Prettier: Look for esbenp.prettier-vscode.
• Black: Ensure the Python extension and Black are installed.

Update them if needed. Often, a mismatch in versions can cause glitches.

Conflicts Between Multiple Formatters

Too many cooks spoil the broth. Same goes for formatters.

Setting a Single Default Formatter for Different File Types

Specify default formatters per language to avoid conflicts:

"[javascript]": {
  "editor.defaultFormatter": "esbenp.prettier-vscode"
},
"[python]": {
  "editor.defaultFormatter": "ms-python.python"
}

This wipes out confusion and keeps VS Code in check.

Ensuring All Formatters are Compatible with Format on Save

Not all formatters play nice with Format on Save. Make sure they’re compatible. Use formatters known for their integration with VS Code settings, like Prettier for JavaScript or Black for Python.

Disabling or Re-enabling Auto Format

Sometimes, you just need to take a break from auto-formatting.

Steps to Turn Off Auto-Format for Specific Formatters

Open settings.json and toggle off:

"[javascript]": {
  "editor.formatOnSave": false
}

Turn it off for specific languages where it becomes a nuisance.

Temporarily Disabling Auto-Format for Focused Coding Sessions

In the middle of a complex piece? Temporarily disable auto-format:

Go to Command Palette (Ctrl+Shift+P), type “Format on Save”, and disable. This helps when you’re deep in a focused coding session and don’t want auto-formatting to mess things up.

FAQ on How To Format Code In VSCode

How do I format code in VSCode?

In VSCode, you can quickly format your code using the default shortcuts: Shift + Alt + F on Windows, Shift + Option + F on macOS. Alternatively, right-click in the editor and choose “Format Document”.

You can also configure Prettier or ESLint through the Extension Marketplace for automatic formatting.

Which extension is best for formatting code?

Prettier is widely used for its versatility across languages like JavaScript, Python, and TypeScript. Install it from the VS Code Marketplace, and set it as your default formatter in settings.

ESLint is ideal for linting and formatting JavaScript/TypeScript code, ensuring adherence to coding standards.

Can I format code automatically on save?

Absolutely. Navigate to File > Preferences > Settings, search for format on save, and check Editor: Format On Save. This ensures your code is automatically tidied up every time you save the file, enhancing readability and consistency across your projects.

How do I configure Prettier in VSCode?

First, install Prettier from the Extension Marketplace. Open your settings (Ctrl + ,), search for default formatter, and set it to Prettier. For project-specific settings, create a .prettierrc configuration file in your project root and customize it according to your needs.

What if the default formatter isn’t working?

If VSCode doesn’t format your code, ensure your default formatter is set correctly in the settings. Go to Settings > Text Editor > Formatting, and verify Prettier or your chosen extension is selected. If issues persist, check for conflicting extensions or workspace settings.

How do I customize code formatting settings?

Access your user settings through File > Preferences > Settings. Here, search for specific formatting options like tab size, indentation, and more. Customize settings in settings.json for finer control. Extensions like EditorConfig can also help maintain consistent formatting rules.

Can I format specific code sections?

Yes, you can format selected code blocks. Highlight the section you want to format and either right-click and select “Format Selection” or use the shortcut Ctrl + K, Ctrl + F for Windows, Cmd + K, Cmd + F on macOS. This provides focused formatting without affecting the entire file.

What are some common formatting issues?

Common issues include inconsistent indentation, improper line breaks, and misaligned code blocks. These can be caused by conflicting settings or extensions. Checking and unifying your user settings, workspace settings, and .editorconfig files can often resolve such conflicts.

How do I format different programming languages in VSCode?

VSCode supports various languages with built-in formatting or through extensions. For JavaScript, TypeScript, and Python, Prettier is a good choice.

For HTML and CSS, VSCode’s built-in formatter works well. Ensure you’ve installed relevant extensions for language-specific formatting.

Can I use multiple formatters in VSCode?

Yes, but conflicts might arise. Specify your primary formatter in the settings and use others for specific tasks. For instance, configure Prettier as the default formatter and ESLint for linting. Modify your settings.json and include language-specific overrides to manage multiple formatters.

Conclusion

Understanding how to format code in VSCode is essential for clean, readable projects. Utilizing tools like Prettier and ESLint enhances code consistency and adheres to coding standards. Whether through shortcuts, extensions, or configurations, VSCode offers multiple ways to achieve well-formatted code.

Configure user settings to enable format on save, ensuring code is tidy every time you save a file. Customize formatting preferences through .prettierrc or EditorConfig to maintain consistency across different projects. If default settings don’t work, adjust the formatter in workspace settings or check for conflicting extensions.

Using built-in tools and extensions from the VS Code Marketplace, you can format code in JavaScript, Python, and other languages with ease. Employing proper formatting techniques not only improves readability but also enhances overall productivity.

Follow these steps, and you’ll master code formatting in VSCode, making your development journey smoother and more efficient.

• Author
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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.

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