When I\'m writing or reading code (Java, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, XML, etc.),I pre
ID: 661772 • Letter: W
Question
When I'm writing or reading code (Java, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, XML, etc.),I prefer something more lightweight than an IDE, that highlights syntax but doesn't do much else. What options are there for OSX?
On Windows, I'd probably use notepad++, and on Linux most distros have a default syntax highlighting text editor of some sort.
Important features
syntax highlighting
the ability to turn auto completion off if present (I find it intrusive)
short load times, and few extraneous features.
low cost (less than
Explanation / Answer
Emacs would suit your needs. OSX comes with an ancient version, you'll probably want to install a more recent version with a native interface. It's free (it's one of the historical highlights of the free software movement). As a bonus, it's available on just about any PC-style or high-end mobile platform.
The set of features that Emacs provides when editing code depends on the programming language, but in general these three features are active by default:
Syntax highlighting.
Pressing Tab indents the current line.
Sometimes pressing punctuation characters automatically adjusts spacing, intendation, or inserts a newline. This is called
Related Questions
drjack9650@gmail.com
Navigate
Integrity-first tutoring: explanations and feedback only — we do not complete graded work. Learn more.