Mastering GitHub: 8 Essential Tricks for Developers
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Introduction
For any developer, GitHub is a beloved platform for collaboration and code management. However, it’s packed with numerous hidden features that can significantly boost your productivity.
1. Quickly Search Files with the "T" Key
One of the lesser-known functionalities is the ability to quickly search for files using the "T" key. This trick is particularly useful when you need to access a file swiftly.
Steps:
- Press the "T" key.
- Type the file name (e.g., add.test.js) to jump straight to it.
2. Exploring Code with an Online "VSCode" Editor
While the "T" key is great for individual file access, it’s not as effective for browsing entire projects. Here are three methods to navigate the code online, similar to your experience in VSCode:
2.1 Method 1: The "." Shortcut
Simply press the "." key to access an online version of the VSCode editor.
Steps:
- Hit the "." key.
2.2 Method 2: Using "github1s.com"
For another quick access method, substitute "github" with "github1s" in the URL.
Steps:
2.3 Method 3: Utilizing "gitpod.com/#xxx"
This method allows you to execute Node.js code directly online, which is incredibly convenient.
Steps:
- Prepend the URL with gitpod.com/#.
- Enjoy running your code!
3. Linking to a Specific Line of Code
If you want to reference a particular line of code, it’s simple to do.
Steps:
- Click the line number you wish to link to.
This link format allows you to specify any line by adjusting the "L" followed by the line number.
4. Linking to Multiple Lines of Code
You can also link to a range of lines if needed.
Steps:
- Hold down the "Shift" key and select the line numbers.
5. Jumping to Function Definitions
Need to quickly find where a function is defined? A Chrome extension called Sourcegraph can help.
After installation, hovering over a function will show a button that, when clicked, takes you directly to its definition.
6. Accessing a List of Shortcut Keys
GitHub has numerous shortcut keys that facilitate coding, but memorizing them can be challenging. Fortunately, you can bring up a list of these shortcuts by pressing "Shift" + "?".
Conclusion
Thank you for exploring these GitHub tricks! I hope these tips enhance your development experience. Stay tuned for more insightful articles!
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