Setting Up AI Coding Tools
AI coding tools have transformed how developers write software. These tools can suggest code, explain errors, and help you learn faster. Let's explore your options and get you set up with at least one tool.
Types of AI Coding Tools
AI coding assistants come in different forms, each with distinct strengths:
Standalone chat interfaces like ChatGPT and Claude let you paste code, ask questions, and have conversations about programming. They're great for explanations, debugging help, and generating code snippets you can copy into your editor.
Editor-integrated tools work directly inside your code editor. GitHub Copilot and Codeium suggest code as you type, offering autocomplete on steroids. You write a comment describing what you want, and the AI suggests the implementation.
AI-first editors like Cursor build AI assistance into every aspect of the coding experience, letting you chat with AI about your entire codebase.
Free Options to Start With
You don't need to pay to get started:
- ChatGPT (free tier available) — Excellent for explanations and code generation
- Claude (free tier available) — Strong at understanding context and explaining concepts
- Codeium — Free editor extension with autocomplete features
- Continue — Open-source AI assistant for VS Code
Setting Up in VS Code
If you're using VS Code, adding AI assistance is straightforward:
- Open the Extensions panel (Ctrl+Shift+X or Cmd+Shift+X)
- Search for "Codeium" or "Continue"
- Click Install
- Follow the setup prompts to create an account
For standalone tools, simply visit chat.openai.com or claude.ai in your browser and create a free account.
Choosing What Works for You
There's no single "best" tool. Many developers use multiple tools:
- Standalone chat for complex questions and learning
- Editor integration for quick suggestions while coding
- Both together for maximum productivity
Start with one tool and get comfortable before adding more. The goal is to enhance your workflow, not complicate it.