Autor: Codenga 08.03.2024

A programmer is required not only to have coding skills but also to be familiar with appropriate tools that facilitate work and increase productivity. Here is a list of seven useful tools that every programmer should have at their disposal. These are universal tools useful in most popular programming languages.

1. Code Editor - Visual Studio Code

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a lightweight yet powerful code editor created by Microsoft. It is highly configurable and has many programming-friendly features such as syntax highlighting, code auto-completion, and integration with version control systems. Hundreds of plugins are also available to customize the working environment to individual needs. Importantly, VS Code is available for free and runs on all popular operating systems.

2. Version Control System - Git

Git is a widely used version control system that allows tracking changes in code, collaboration with other programmers, and reverting to previous versions of a project. With Git, managing source code, tracking change history, and resolving conflicts are made easy. Git is an industry standard, and most job listings for programmers require at least basic knowledge of this tool.

3. Terminal - Bash (Unix) / PowerShell (Windows)

The terminal is an essential tool for every programmer. It allows interactive work with the operating system, executing commands, and running scripts. Whether you are working on a Unix-based system like Linux or macOS, or Windows, the ability to effectively use the terminal is crucial for efficient work.

For Unix-based systems such as Linux or macOS, we have Bash For Windows systems, the primary choice is PowerShell. Both mentioned tools allow interaction with the system, command execution, and task automation through scripts.

4. Browser Developer Tools - Google Chrome DevTools

When developing web applications, the browser's Developer Tools are invaluable. In the case of Google Chrome, DevTools offer many useful features for debugging and analyzing websites, such as element inspector, network monitoring, and performance analysis. It is a fundamental tool for programmers creating web applications and websites.

5. Containerization - Docker

Docker is a tool for containerizing applications, enabling packaging applications into lightweight, portable containers. This allows applications to be isolated from each other and from the operating system, greatly facilitating deployment on various platforms, from local development environments to production environments in the cloud.

6. API Testing - Postman

Postman is a tool for testing API interfaces, allowing developers to create, share, and test HTTP requests in an easy and efficient way. It allows quick verification of API functionality and debugging of requests and responses.

7. Test Automation - Selenium

Selenium is a tool for automating tests of web applications. This tool enables programmers to create and run automated tests in web browsers. It is another important tool for any programmer involved in creating web applications, especially those that operate in the browser (front-end).

Summary

Regardless of the language you work with, there are certain tools essential for daily work. In the article, we have shown those tools that are universal and applicable in most popular fields and programming specialties.