Which Code Editors Training Format Is Right for Me?

A code editor is a program designed to make writing code smooth and error-free. Code editors are a key tool for any developer today. When comparing types of training in code editors, there are many factors to consider. Everyone learns differently, and choosing the right kind of training is critical to your experience.

Keep reading to find out more about the different formats of training in code editors, how they compare to each other, and how to determine which is best for you.

What are Code Editors?

A code editor is a type of developer tool, widely used by programmers to facilitate their writing process. It’s a standalone program that developers will write their code in before entering it where it will ultimately be executed. Code editors provide features that make coding more efficient and give the programmer more clarity about how their code functions. Code editors have been in use since 1985, when IBM developed the first one. 

Prior to the invention of code editors, coders generally wrote in a word processing program before transferring their code to be executed. The importance of code editors is that they are specifically designed for writing programs efficiently. Unlike a word processing program, the creators of a code editor build all of its features with this purpose in mind. Standard features of a code editor include live parsing, syntax highlighting, automatic indentation, auto-completion, and expandable code snippets.

One of a code editor’s most important features is color-coded syntax highlighting. The code editor parses the code in real-time to identify its key elements—such as variables, commands, and functions—and highlights them in different colors to help the programmer see the code’s structure more clearly. Another aspect of code editors that clarifies structure is the automatic indentation of code that runs inside functions or loops, so the coder can see that this code is subordinate to the larger structure of the program.

Code editors typically include built-in error-checking, which allows coders to avoid tedious debugging by hand. Like search engines, code editors also have an auto-complete feature, which saves time by anticipating and suggesting what you might want to write next. Another time-saving element of most code editors is the ability to use built-in code snippets to execute the same code repeatedly. Some editors let you create custom code snippets for your specific projects. Many of them can also work with plug-ins that increase their functionality. 

On a higher level, code editors make it easier for a Developer to navigate code files and resources as they work. Today, almost every Developer uses a code editor. For beginners, the most popular code editor is Visual Studio Code. Other beginner-friendly code editors include Atom, Notepad++, and Sublime.

Read more about what code editors are and why you should learn them.

What Can You Do with Code Editors?

Code editors allow a Developer to write error-free code more efficiently. They come equipped with features that facilitate the coding process. These features include syntax highlighting, automatic indentation, error-checking, autocomplete, and code snippets. That’s why their use is practically universal among developers today.

Color-coded syntax highlighting allows the coder to see the structure of their code. The code editor identifies in real-time what type of coding element the programmer is using, and uses color highlighting to mark variables, commands, and functions in the code. The live parsing that makes syntax highlighting possible also allows code editors to provide automatic indentation. Sections of code that are subordinate to the overall program, like those within functions or loops, are indented to show the relationship they bear to the rest of the code.

Another aspect of code editors that increases developer efficiency is the error-checking function, which allows the coder to avoid hours of tedious debugging. Many code editors have an autocomplete function, just as search engines do. This saves you time by anticipating and suggesting what you may want to write next. Code snippets also speed up your process by allowing you to avoid typing the same lengthy bit of code over and over again.

Training Formats for Code Editors

The available formats for training in code editors include in-person classes, live online courses, free tutorials, and paid on-demand materials. Students often choose in-person or live online courses because they want guidance from an expert instructor and, sometimes, for the camaraderie of learning alongside others. Those who find social support motivating will likely benefit the most from studying in-person. Others may have an easier time focusing in their own home, which would make live online study a better fit for them. Another advantage of live online study is that you don’t have to commute to class.

Free tutorials and on-demand courses can be useful for students who want or need to learn code editors at their own pace. If you’re seeking to learn the basics of coding and code editors, you can find some of that information in the video tutorials available for free. To go beyond that point, however, you’ll need to make a modest financial investment in on-demand materials that go into more depth about the subject. These typically require payment either for an individual course or in the form of a subscription to the platform offering the course. 

In-Person Code Editors Training

Learning in-person is certainly the most traditional method of picking up a new skill—and, for most of human history, was the only option. Many people still prefer to study this way. Being on-site with an expert instructor and working alongside fellow students as you learn new skills can be a vital support structure for your learning process. If you find external structure helpful in staying on track as you study, the set class schedules and firm deadlines of in-person instruction could be helpful as well.

Another advantage of taking an in-person class is that many schools provide in-person students with access to up-to-date equipment and industry-standard programs. In terms of technology, being on-site means that technical difficulties can’t prevent you from attending class. However, you do have a commute when you take a class in person, which is an investment in time and energy. Some students may also find in-person learning distracting because of temptations to socialize instead of focusing on their studies.

Noble offers in-person training in code editors as part of several certificate programs. Those looking to learn code editors for web development may be interested in a certificate in JavaScript development, front end web development certificate, or certificate in full stack development. For data science, students can look into the Python Developer certificate program. In all these programs, you will learn to use Visual Studio Code for code editing. You can also learn to use code editors by doing a certificate program or bootcamp through providers including Coding Dojo and Full Stack Academy. Most individual in-person coding classes also include training in the use of code editors.

Live Online Code Editors Training

Though in-person training remains the most common learning method, virtual training has grown in popularity over the last several years. Taking a course in a live online format allows the student to avoid the drawbacks of a commute to class, while also keeping the advantage of working directly with an expert instructor. If you take a course live online, you’ll still get the benefit of real-time clarification, feedback, and guidance on your work. Some students may also find it easier to focus in their own homes than in a classroom. At home, you can set up your study space however you like it, and learning from home also helps you avoid potential distractions that might arise from being in the same space as your classmates.

If you find social interaction motivating, however, you may miss that element of learning in-person. Technical issues can be a problem with live online training as well, as a crashing computer or shaky internet connection can interrupt your access to instruction. Also, the quality of your equipment may not be as high as that of the resources you’d have access to when training in person.

To study coding and code editors live online, you could do a certificate program through Noble Desktop. If you’re looking to become a Data Scientist, the Python Developer certificate program might be a good option for you. An aspiring Web Developer could look into the certificate in full stack development, front end web development certificate, or certificate in JavaScript development. You can also learn code editors live online through live online coding classes and bootcamps from Noble, or other providers including Digital Crafts, Ironhack, or Tech Elevator.

Free Online Courses & Tutorials

Perhaps, as you read about code editors, you’re thinking that this sounds like an interesting skill, but you’re not quite ready to start a full coding course. If so, you may simply want an overview of code editors, which you can generally acquire for free online. Noble has a free tutorial on the Visual Studio Code editor to get you started with that program. If you want to learn more about code editors in general, there are some courses available at Udemy that will take you through how code editors work and what you can do with them. Udemy, Coursera, and Skillshare all have courses on the use of specific code editors.

Read about more free videos and online tutorials on how to use code editors.

You can find free tutorials on how to use Visual Studio Code and other editors through Codecademy, FreeCodeCamp, and other providers. These typically teach you how to set up the code editor and begin coding in it. Some also teach you how to use specific features within the editor, such as code snippets and how to create custom ones for a particular program.

On-Demand Classes

Depending on your own situation, self-paced on-demand training in code editors could be the best choice for you. This is typically the most cost-effective learning method. If you’re studying the basics, you can often find free materials such as video tutorials or explainers.

To take your studies in-depth, however, you’ll probably want access to some paid on-demand materials. Skillsoft, Udacity, and Treehouse are among the providers that offer self-paced coding courses. The other advantage of choosing to learn from paid materials is that you can be confident they will be high-quality and up-to-date, which avoids the difficulty of filtering the available free materials to determine what is actually useful. And even though you will make some investment, paid on-demand materials are still substantially cheaper than live instruction.

On-demand training is also a particularly good fit for those with a busy schedule. Not only do you avoid a commute, but you have even greater flexibility because you can learn at any time, whenever you find a moment.

A drawback of choosing on-demand training over live instruction is that you won’t have access to an expert instructor who can answer questions or provide feedback on the work you’re doing. You’ll also need more self-discipline if you choose this route, as you’ll have to keep yourself on track without the external structure of schedules and deadlines that live instruction offers. Confident that you can stay focused and fit your studies into that busy schedule? In that case, a self-paced course might be perfect for you.

Comparison of Code Editors Training Formats

Whether you choose to study code editors in-person, live online, or using on-demand materials, the method you select will have its particular advantages. Most students find live instruction a more engaging way to study code editors because it is more interactive. Expert instructors can provide real-time answers to your questions, feedback on your work, and guidance as you proceed in your studies. Some also find that learning along with others motivates them in their studies. Live instruction often makes it easier to stay on track, too, as it provides an external structure of schedules and deadlines. Yet for some students, usually self-starters with busy schedules, self-paced study using on-demand materials can be a better fit.

Does social interaction tend to give you more energy? If so, an in-person study of code editors might be the right choice for you. The classroom experience of bonding with your teacher and classmates can be a motivating force for some students, and it also offers great networking opportunities. You’ll also avoid the potential for technical difficulties to get in the way of your learning process. Many in-person courses also provide up-to-date equipment and industry-standard software, which could make your studies easier and, in that respect, more affordable.

If you happen to live in an area without access to in-person classes where you could study code editors, the best instruction method for you might be live online training. This could also apply if you are too busy to commute to classes. The social aspect of in-person training is also distracting for some students, who may find learning from home helps with their focus. However, the limited social interaction offered by live online courses may make them less stimulating for others. With studying online but in real-time, there is also the possibility of a computer or internet issue getting in the way of your work.

In general, the most affordable option for training in code editors is on-demand study. This makes it a good way to learn the basics. It can also be a good choice for those who are especially busy, as it allows you to pursue your studies on your own schedule. The drawback is that it lacks the aspect of real-time access to an instructor whose expert guidance can ease and expedite your learning process.

Is it Possible to Teach Yourself Code Editors?

Teaching yourself to use a code editor is certainly possible, especially if you only want to understand the basics. The available videos and tutorials make it possible to get an overview of the subject. However, it can sometimes be difficult to choose which videos and tutorials to use, and some of these free resources can be out of date, as editors do release new versions periodically. Having live access to an expert instructor can make it easier to orient yourself in the field.

The most effective method for gaining a strong understanding of how to use code editors is real-time instruction. With live courses, you have an on-hand expert who can clarify when you’re confused, give you guidance on how to proceed in your studies, and provide you with personalized feedback on the work you do. If you want to improve in coding and using code editors, an expert instructor is an invaluable resource, particularly for students who want to pursue coding professionally.

How to Decide the Best Way to Learn Code Editors

You may find it difficult to choose how you want to go about studying coding and code editors. How can you know what will suit your particular situation best? Perhaps the most important element when you decide on a learning method is what you are planning to do with the skill you’re seeking to learn. You will also want to consider the level of experience with coding you already have. Another thing you’ll want to think about is how much energy, money, and time that you are willing and able to spend on your studies. Your knowledge of your own learning tendencies will help you make another key choice, which is whether to learn in an in-person, live online, or on-demand format.

If, as a beginner, you’re not yet ready to invest in your training financially, you can use free introductory courses to learn the basics of code editors. Codecademy and FreeCodeCamp have courses that can teach you how to set up a code editor and get started coding with the program. There are also free video tutorials on how to use specific features of code editors like Visual Studio Code. However, the drawback of using free on-demand materials, or even paid ones, is that you won’t have access to an expert instructor who can provide clarification, feedback, and guidance as you learn. These aspects of live instruction can be especially important early in the learning process.

Looking to pivot to a new industry or master coding and code editors for a new career? If you want to become a Web Developer, check out Noble’s certificate in JavaScript development, front end web development certificate, or certificate in full stack development. Aspiring Data Scientists will want to look into the Python Developer certificate.

Learn Coding with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

When you study coding at Noble Desktop, the expert instructors and small class sizes will expedite and enhance your learning process. Noble’s varied training formats allow you to choose the type of training that will work best for you, whether that’s in-person or live online. Once you’ve finished a Noble course, you can retake that class for free, which can be helpful if you’d like to learn even more about coding. Coding courses at Noble include the use of code editors and other vital developer tools.

Noble has several certificate programs in coding. Your choice of program will depend on why you want to learn the skill. If you’re interested in becoming a Web Developer, you might want to enroll in a certificate in full stack development, unless you’re exclusively interested in front end work. In that case, the front end web development certificate program might be for you. Noble’s certificate in JavaScript development is also a good option for aspiring Web Developers. Students looking to become Data Scientists may want to check out the Python Developer certificate program.

If you’d prefer to start with an individual class before leaping into a certificate program, you can study coding in-person or take live online coding classes.