In this blog post, we’ll dive into Cursor, an AI-powered Integrated Development Environment (IDE) that’s making waves in the development community. Cursor is built on a fork of Visual Studio Code and is enhanced with the latest AI models, including Claude 3.5. Let’s explore how Cursor stands out and how you can leverage it to build apps more efficiently.
Cursor is an AI-powered IDE built on a fork of Visual Studio Code, designed to enhance productivity by integrating with the latest AI models like Claude 3.5. Let’s explore its features and how it can transform app development.
What is Cursor?
Cursor is an AI-powered IDE that offers advanced development capabilities beyond traditional coding tools. Unlike older IDEs that rely on outdated models like GPT-3, Cursor integrates with newer large language models (LLMs), including Cursor’s custom models and Claude 3.5. It’s available in three plans: Hobby, Pro, and Business, each providing access to different LLMs. The Pro and Business plans include a two-week trial that allows full access to these features.
Getting Started with Cursor and Claude 3.5
To start using Cursor, download and install it from the official website. After installing, configure your environment to connect Cursor with Claude 3.5. If you’re on the free plan, you’ll need to manually connect your Claude 3.5 API key. Cursor allows seamless integration with your existing Visual Studio Code settings and extensions, providing a familiar and powerful development environment.
Key Features of Cursor
-
Command Palette (Command+K): This feature enables quick edits, code snippets, and answers to questions directly within the IDE. For example, while building a Google Keep clone app, you can use voice commands to add input fields, create new elements, or update existing ones. Cursor provides real-time suggestions to improve your workflow and reduce errors.
-
Composer (Command+Shift+K): The Composer is designed for making changes across multiple files with a single prompt. It distinguishes between “context” files, which are directly modified, and “reference” files, which provide information to the AI without being changed. This functionality allows for the efficient implementation of large-scale changes, like adding new fields or adjusting components across a project.
-
Chat Interface (Command+Shift+L): Cursor includes a built-in chat feature that allows you to interact with the AI for additional help. You can ask questions, get coding advice, and even modify your project based on visual inputs like screenshots. This tool can quickly incorporate changes based on user feedback, making it a valuable asset for collaborative development.
Practical Use Case: Building a Note-Taking App
To demonstrate Cursor’s capabilities, we used it to build a note-taking app with a few simple commands. By using the command palette and composer features, we added new fields, connected them to a database, and ensured the UI was responsive and functional. The process was intuitive and required minimal manual intervention, showcasing how Cursor can accelerate development workflows.
Results
Cursor, combined with Claude 3.5, is a game-changer for developers looking to enhance productivity and streamline app creation. With powerful features like the command palette, composer, and chat interface, Cursor offers a robust environment for modern development. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced developer, Cursor’s AI-driven capabilities can transform how you build apps, making it faster and more intuitive.
If you liked this post, subscribe to my newsletter!