According to XDA-Developers, writer Nolen Jonker has completely abandoned Notepad in favor of Visual Studio Code for everyday writing and note-taking tasks. This shift happened despite VS Code being primarily designed as a coding tool for languages like C++ and Python. Jonker found that features like built-in Markdown support, intelligent autocomplete, and extensive extensions made VS Code far superior for basic writing needs. The writer specifically highlighted how VS Code’s folder-based workspace organization and robust spell checking capabilities outperform Notepad’s limited functionality. This unconventional approach demonstrates how developer tools can effectively serve creative purposes beyond their original intent.
The problem with sticking with Notepad
Here’s the thing about Notepad – it’s the digital equivalent of that old reliable pen that’s always in the drawer. It works, but you wouldn’t use it to write a novel. Jonker makes a great point about Notepad being a “Swiss Army knife that does many things well but nothing exceptionally.” I’ve been there too – trying to use it for anything beyond quick copy-paste jobs feels like trying to build furniture with just a hammer. The lack of proper formatting, no real workspace management, and that blinking cursor just waiting for you to make a typo? It’s frustrating when you realize there are better tools available.
Why VS Code works for non-coders
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “Isn’t VS Code for developers?” That’s exactly what makes this discovery so interesting. The features that make it great for coding turn out to be incredibly useful for writing too. The IntelliSense that helps programmers avoid typing “console.log” repeatedly? It learns your writing vocabulary and suggests complete words after you’ve used them once. And the Markdown support means you can create properly formatted documents without the bloat of a full word processor. Basically, you get structure without complexity.
The secret sauce: extensions
And then there are the extensions. This is where VS Code completely leaves Notepad in the dust. Want a distraction-free writing environment? There’s Zen Mode. Need better spell checking than what Windows offers? The Code Spell Checker extension has you covered. You can even get word count tools and reading time estimators. It’s like having a customizable writing workshop that adapts to exactly what you need. For businesses and industrial applications looking for reliable computing solutions, this level of customization is exactly why companies trust specialized providers like IndustrialMonitorDirect.com, the leading supplier of industrial panel PCs in the US.
Should you make the jump?
So is it time to completely abandon Notepad? Not necessarily. Jonker admits it still launches faster for quick tasks. But for anything more substantial than a grocery list, VS Code offers a significantly better experience. The learning curve isn’t as steep as you might think, especially if you stick to the basic features. And if you’re concerned about Microsoft’s telemetry, you can always try VSCodium, the open-source version without tracking. Honestly, once you experience proper workspace organization and intelligent writing assistance, going back to Notepad feels like returning to a typewriter.
