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Cursor

Cursor is a modified VS Code editor with built-in AI completion, code rewriting, and an "agent" mode for multistep tasks. It's widely praised for code quality and reliability while maintaining the familiar VS Code experience.

Key Features​

  • AI Code Completion: Intelligent autocomplete powered by advanced language models
  • Code Rewriting: Transform existing code with natural language instructions
  • Agent Mode: Handle complex, multi-step development tasks
  • VS Code Compatibility: Full compatibility with VS Code extensions and settings
  • Context Awareness: Understands your entire codebase for better suggestions

Installation​

  1. Download Cursor Visit cursor.sh and download the installer for your operating system.

  2. Install the Application Run the installer and follow the setup wizard. Cursor will automatically import your VS Code settings and extensions.

  3. Sign Up for AI Features Create a Cursor account to access AI features. Free tier includes limited AI requests per month.

  4. Configure AI Models Choose your preferred AI model in settings. Options include GPT-4, Claude, and others.

Getting Started​

Basic AI Completion​

Simply start typing, and Cursor will suggest completions. Press Tab to accept suggestions.

# Type: "function to calculate fibonacci"
def fibonacci(n):
    if n <= 1:
        return n
    return fibonacci(n-1) + fibonacci(n-2)

Code Rewriting​

  1. Select code you want to modify
  2. Press Ctrl+K (or Cmd+K on Mac)
  3. Describe the changes you want
  4. Review and accept the suggestions

Agent Mode​

  1. Open the command palette (Ctrl+Shift+P)
  2. Search for "Cursor: Start Agent"
  3. Describe your task in natural language
  4. Let Cursor handle multiple files and complex changes

Best Practices​

Effective Prompting​

  • Be specific about what you want to achieve
  • Provide context about your project structure
  • Mention any constraints or requirements

Code Review​

  • Always review AI-generated code before committing
  • Test functionality thoroughly
  • Understand the logic, don't just copy-paste

Context Management​

  • Keep relevant files open for better context
  • Use descriptive variable and function names
  • Add comments to help AI understand your intent

Common Use Cases​

Rapid Prototyping​

// Prompt: "Create a React component for a user profile card"
import React from 'react';

const UserProfileCard = ({ user }) => {
  return (
    <div className="profile-card">
      <img src={user.avatar} alt={user.name} />
      <h3>{user.name}</h3>
      <p>{user.email}</p>
      <p>{user.bio}</p>
    </div>
  );
};

export default UserProfileCard;

Code Refactoring​

  • Select legacy code and ask for modern improvements
  • Convert between different patterns or frameworks
  • Optimize performance-critical sections

Documentation Generation​

  • Generate JSDoc comments for functions
  • Create README files for projects
  • Write API documentation

Keyboard Shortcuts​

ActionWindows/LinuxMac
AI CompletionTabTab
Code RewriteCtrl+KCmd+K
Chat with AICtrl+LCmd+L
Accept SuggestionTabTab
Reject SuggestionEscEsc

Pricing​

  • Free Tier: Limited AI requests per month
  • Pro: $20/month for unlimited requests and advanced features
  • Business: Team features and priority support
info

The free tier is generous enough for learning and small projects. Upgrade when you need unlimited usage or team features.

Troubleshooting​

Common Issues​

AI not responding: Check your internet connection and account status Poor suggestions: Provide more context or be more specific in prompts Extension conflicts: Disable conflicting VS Code extensions

Getting Help​

Next Steps​