published November 12, 2023 - updated February 8, 2024 
Visual Studio Code (or VS Code for short) is a versatile text editor and Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that many developers use to write and run code. If you’re looking to write and run C++ code in Visual Studio, you’re in the right place. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process, and we’ll make use of some essential keywords like “Visual Studio Code,” “C and C++,” “Install,” “Code Runner,” and more.
Getting Started with Visual Studio Code
Before we dive into the specifics of running C++ code, including how to С++ dereference a pointer, let’s make sure you have Visual Studio Code installed on your system. You can download it directly from the official website. If you want to experience the latest updates instantly, consider installing Visual Studio Code Insiders, which contains all the latest features.
Installation Process
Once you’ve downloaded the installer, follow these steps:
- Accept the agreement and click Next.
- Keep all default settings as they are.
- Check all the boxes and click Next.
- Click Install and let the installation process finish.
- Finally, click Finish to complete the installation.
Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed Visual Studio Code/VS Code Insiders on your system.
Preparing Visual Studio Code for C++ Code
Now that you have Visual Studio Code installed, it’s time to set it up for C++ development. Follow these steps:
1. Install Extensions
Go to the Extension tab in Visual Studio Code and search for “C” or “C++.” Install the first extension that is verified by Microsoft itself. Additionally, install the “C/C++ Extension Pack,” which is also verified by Microsoft. These extensions will enhance your C++ development experience.
2. Install Code Runner
Search for “Code Runner” in the extensions and install it. Code Runner allows you to execute your C++ code directly from Visual Studio Code.
3. Configure Settings
Click on the gear icon (Manage section) and then select Settings. In the search bar, type “Run code in terminal” and press Enter. Ensure that the box next to “Code-runner: Run In Terminal” is checked. This setting allows you to run your code in the terminal.
4. Restart Visual Studio Code
Close and reopen Visual Studio Code to apply the changes you’ve made to the settings.
Writing and Running C++ Code
With Visual Studio Code set up for C++ development, you can now write and run your code effortlessly.
- Open Visual Studio Code and create a new file with a .cpp extension for C++ code.
- Write your C++ code in the file.
Running Your Code
To run your code, simply click the play button located in the upper right corner of Visual Studio Code. This will compile and run your C++ code directly. Code Runner will handle the execution, and you’ll see the output in the terminal.
Conclusion
Running C++ code in Visual Studio Code is straightforward when you follow these steps. Visual Studio Code’s flexibility and the availability of extensions like “C/C++” and “Code Runner” make it an excellent choice for C++ development.
By installing the necessary extensions and configuring the settings, you can streamline your C++ development workflow. Now you’re ready to write, compile, and run C++ code seamlessly within Visual Studio Code.
Don’t forget to explore the latest features in Visual Studio Code Insiders if you’re looking for the most up-to-date development experience. Happy coding!
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