Setting Up Your Computer
Your laptop is more than just a device—it’s your development environment. A well-configured setup improves productivity, reduces frustration, and helps you focus on learning rather than fixing your tools.
Don’t install everything at once. Start with the essentials and expand your toolkit as your coursework and projects become more advanced.
1. Code Editor / IDE
A code editor is where you’ll spend most of your time.
Recommended
- Visual Studio Code (VS Code)
VS Code is lightweight, fast, free, and supports almost every programming language through extensions. It is more than enough for most university coursework.
Depending on your courses, you may later install:
- IntelliJ IDEA (Java)
- Android Studio (Android Development)
- PyCharm (Python)
Install these only when you actually need them.
2. Git & GitHub
Version control is one of the most important skills every developer should learn.
Install:
- Git
- Create a GitHub account
Git allows you to:
- Track changes to your code
- Undo mistakes
- Collaborate with teammates
- Build a public portfolio of your projects
Even if your university doesn’t teach Git early, learning it yourself is well worth the effort.
3. Terminal
Learning the command line is an essential skill for every computer science student.
I recommend using Alacritty as your terminal emulator because it’s lightweight, fast, and highly configurable.
You’ll eventually use the terminal for:
- Running programs
- Managing Git repositories
- Installing packages
- Working with Linux servers
- Automating repetitive tasks
Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with the terminal now—you’ll become comfortable with it over time.
4. Programming Languages
Only install the languages your course requires.
Common first-year languages include:
- Python
- C
- C++
- Java
There’s no benefit to installing ten different programming languages before you actually need them.
5. Package Managers
Package managers make installing libraries and developer tools much easier.
You’ll naturally encounter these during your studies:
- pip (Python)
- npm (JavaScript)
- pnpm (recommended if you work with modern JavaScript projects)
Don’t try to learn all of them immediately.
6. VS Code Extensions
A few carefully chosen extensions can significantly improve your experience.
Recommended:
- C/C++
- Python
- Java Extension Pack (if needed)
- GitLens
- Error Lens
- Prettier
- ESLint (for JavaScript)
- Docker (only if you use Docker later)
- GitHub Copilot (optional)
Avoid installing dozens of extensions. More isn’t always better.
7. Developer Fonts
A good programming font improves readability during long coding sessions.
Popular choices include:
- JetBrains Mono
- Fira Code
- Cascadia Code
Fonts with programming ligatures are optional—they’re nice but not required.
8. Eye Care
You’ll spend thousands of hours looking at your screen.
I highly recommend installing Safe Eyes (or a similar break reminder application).
It encourages regular short breaks, helping reduce eye strain during long study sessions.
Your eyes will thank you later.
9. RSS Reader
Technology changes quickly.
Instead of relying entirely on social media, consider using an RSS reader to follow blogs and developer news.
Some great sources include:
- engineering blogs
- programming newsletters
- language release notes
- security advisories
Building the habit of reading technical articles early is one of the best long-term investments you can make.
10. Notes
You’ll accumulate a huge amount of knowledge throughout your degree.
Choose one note-taking application and stick with it.
Popular options include:
- Obsidian
- Notion
- OneNote
Consistency matters more than the application you choose.
11. Optional Tools (Install Later)
- Docker
- PostgreSQL
- MongoDB
- Postman
- Android Studio
- VirtualBox
- WSL (Windows users)
- Figma
Install them only when you have a need later.
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