VSCode Extension

Features

Smart auto-completion

The extension provides intelligent code completion that understands Clarity's context. When you start typing any Clarity function, you get instant suggestions with documentation:

;; Type "stx-tr" and get:
(stx-transfer? amount sender recipient)
;;             ^      ^      ^
;;             Placeholders for easy navigation

Use Tab to jump between placeholders and Escape to exit placeholder mode.

Documentation on hover

Access comprehensive documentation without leaving your editor. Hover over any Clarity function or keyword to see:

;; Hover over 'map-set' to see:
;; - Function signature
;; - Parameter descriptions
;; - Return type
;; - Usage examples
(map-set my-map {key: "value"} "data")

Go-to definition

Navigate your codebase efficiently with jump-to-definition features:

• F12 or Ctrl+Click - Go to definition

• Alt+F12 - Peek definition without leaving current file

• Works across contract files and contract calls

Real-time error checking

The extension validates your code continuously, providing immediate feedback:

• Red squiggles - Syntax errors, unknown keywords

• Yellow squiggles - Warnings for potentially unsafe code

• Error list - All issues in the Problems panel (Ctrl+Shift+M)

Common errors caught include undefined variables, type mismatches, missing trait implementations, and invalid function signatures.

Local contract resolution

Auto-completion works across your entire project. Reference functions from other contracts in your workspace:

;; Auto-complete local contract calls
(contract-call? .my-token transfer amount sender recipient)
;;               ^
;;               Suggests contracts in your project

Trait support

When implementing traits (like SIP-009 NFTs or SIP-010 tokens), the extension verifies:

• All required functions are implemented

• Function signatures match trait definitions

• Return types are correct

;; Extension warns if missing required trait functions
(impl-trait .sip-010-trait.sip-010-trait)

;; ⚠️ Warning: Missing required function 'get-balance'

Visual debugging

1

Set breakpoints

Set breakpoints by clicking line numbers in the editor.

2

Start debugging

Press F5 or use Run → Start Debugging to begin a debugging session.

3

Step through code

Step through code line-by-line to follow execution.

4

Inspect state

Inspect variables and stack state while paused at breakpoints.

Visual debugging requires VS Code Desktop and Clarinet installed locally.

Comparison table

Feature	Basic Editor	VS Code Extension
Syntax highlighting	Limited	Full Clarity support
Auto-completion	None	Context-aware with docs
Error checking	On deploy only	Real-time validation
Documentation	External lookup	Inline hover docs
Debugging	Console only	Visual debugger
Cross-file navigation	Manual	Jump to definition