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The only 7 VS Code extensions a beginner needs

“Skip the 40-extension lists. These seven make your editor faster without making it confusing.”
Attaullah

Instructor, TechSnow

12 Sept 2026 · 1 min read · Tools

More extensions do not make you a better programmer. A few good ones do make you faster.

The list

  • Prettier, to format code on save
  • ESLint, to catch mistakes in JavaScript
  • Python, the official extension for running and debugging
  • Error Lens, to show errors right next to the line
  • GitLens, to see who changed a line and why
  • Live Server, to reload your web page on every save
  • Code Spell Checker, because typos in variable names are real bugs

Turn on format on save

{
  "editor.formatOnSave": true,
  "editor.defaultFormatter": "esbenp.prettier-vscode"
}
If an extension slows down your editor, turn it off. You can always add it back.

Written by

Attaullah

Instructor, TechSnow

Teaches web development, Python and programming fundamentals at TechSnow, with clear lessons in English and Urdu / Hindi and a real project in every course.

3 comments

Be kind. Comments with links are reviewed before they appear.

  • Hamza K. 2 days ago

    Really clear explanation. The example made it click for me.

    • TechSnow teamAuthor2 days ago

      Glad it helped, Hamza! Try changing the example and see what breaks.

  • Mehwish 4 days ago

    Could you write a follow-up with a bigger project?

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