How to run Java in Visual Studio Code?

Running Java in Visual Studio Code: A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a popular, open-source code editor developed by Microsoft. It offers a wide range of features, including support for various programming languages, including Java. In this article, we will guide you through the process of running Java in VS Code.

Prerequisites

Before we begin, make sure you have the following:

• Java Development Kit (JDK): Download and install the JDK from the official Oracle website.
• Java Runtime Environment (JRE): Download and install the JRE from the official Oracle website.
• VS Code: Install VS Code from the official website.
• Java Extension Pack: Install the Java Extension Pack from the official VS Code marketplace.

Step 1: Create a New Java Project in VS Code

• Open VS Code and create a new folder for your project.
• Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing Ctrl + Shift + P (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + P (Mac).
• Type "Java: Select Language" and select the "Java" option.
• Choose the JDK and JRE versions you want to use.
• Click "OK" to create a new Java project.

Step 2: Create a Java Class

• In the newly created folder, create a new file called Main.java.
• Open the Main.java file in VS Code.
• Add the following code to the file:

  
  
  import java.util.Scanner;

public class Main {
public static void main(String[] args) {
Scanner scanner = new Scanner(System.in);
System.out.println("Hello, World!");
scanner.close();
}
}

* Save the file by pressing `Ctrl + S` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + S` (Mac).



**Step 3: Run the Java Program**



* Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing `Ctrl + Shift + P` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + P` (Mac).

* Type "Java: Run File" and select the "Run File" option.

* Navigate to the `Main.java` file in the folder.

* Select the "Run" option.

* VS Code will compile and run the Java program.



**Step 4: Debug the Java Program**



* Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing `Ctrl + Shift + P` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + P` (Mac).

* Type "Java: Debug File" and select the "Debug File" option.

* Navigate to the `Main.java` file in the folder.

* Select the "Debug" option.

* VS Code will start the Java debugger and run the program.



**Step 5: Use Java Extensions in VS Code**



* Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing `Ctrl + Shift + P` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + P` (Mac).

* Type "Java: Select Language" and select the "Java" option.

* Choose the JDK and JRE versions you want to use.

* Click "OK" to select the Java language.

* VS Code will install the Java Extension Pack.

* Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing `Ctrl + Shift + P` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + P` (Mac).

* Type "Java: Select Language" and select the "Java" option.

* Choose the JDK and JRE versions you want to use.

* Click "OK" to select the Java language.



**Step 6: Use Java Tools in VS Code**



* Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing `Ctrl + Shift + P` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + P` (Mac).

* Type "Java: Select Language" and select the "Java" option.

* Choose the JDK and JRE versions you want to use.

* Click "OK" to select the Java language.

* VS Code will install the Java Tools.

* Open the Command Palette in VS Code by pressing `Ctrl + Shift + P` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + P` (Mac).

* Type "Java: Select Language" and select the "Java" option.

* Choose the JDK and JRE versions you want to use.

* Click "OK" to select the Java language.



**Tips and Tricks**



* To run a Java program in debug mode, press `F5` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + R` (Mac).

* To use the Java console, press `Ctrl + Shift + I` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + I` (Mac).

* To use the Java debugger, press `F5` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + R` (Mac).

* To use the Java console, press `Ctrl + Shift + I` (Windows/Linux) or `Cmd + Shift + I` (Mac).



**Conclusion**



Running Java in VS Code is a straightforward process that requires minimal setup. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can create, compile, and run Java programs in VS Code. With the Java Extension Pack and Java Tools installed, you can take advantage of advanced features such as debugging and console access. Whether you're a seasoned developer or just starting out, VS Code is an excellent choice for running Java programs.