Autocomplete double quotes, braces, parens ... how is it used

[3.14159]

Hello,

 

As a very new programming student I am a bit confused by the "autocomplete" feature. Specifically I'd like to talk about the double quotes (programming in C). If I write something in double quotes and the second double quote is auto-generated, I still have to arrow over the character in order to close the parens or do whatever next.

 

Am I doing something wrong? I feel like using the arrow key to skip over the auto-generated double quote is in no way a time saver compared to just typing <shift> + <">. Cognitively I find it easier to just type the second <"> naturally. Same with parens and even braces.

 

I feel like I'm not using this feature right, is there another key to press that will automatically skip you to the end of the autocompleted text or something?

 

Sorry if this is question is too basic - I'm literally brand new to this stuff. Looking forward to your responses!

 

edit: in case anyone is wondering I'm referring to this feature as used in codewars.com editor, but I believe I've seen it around other places too.

Edited February 21, 2021 by 3.14159
see edit

[trag1c]

Intelligent code completion when it comes to stuff like braces or quotes may not appear to be a time saver in some instances but at the very least it reminds you to put them in. It cuts down on syntax errors which ultimately stops you from sifting through your code. Although the compiler will most likely point you to the line sometimes its not always immediately evident where you missed a brace or what not. So the real gain is when you press your shortcut to compile and it just works.

[3.14159]

Gotchya, that makes sense. Maybe when I start writing code that requires more than a dozen lines I'll appreciate this feature more.

[minibois]

If the autocompleted double quote requires the same amount of keystrokes as manually typing it, that would make it a good thing, right? Since that way you can never forget and it's not any more keystrokes.

These sorts of handy features is something that will become second nature once you start programming more.

 

Of course it's always good to remember how to do things manually, but I can't remember the last time I manually typed a "for"-loop (instead of typing for and pressing Tab twice, which is the short-hand in Visual Studio).

[3.14159]

Yes, once I start programming more. At the moment (and with my current very short scripts) I find it more of a distraction or mild hinderance. I have to restrain myself from typing <shift> <"> and instead arrow over. Obviously this is a minor gripe, mainly wanted to see if I was even using it right lol.

 

Like you said, with more practice I'm sure this will become natural.