jMonkeyPlatform: Code Editor and Palette

The Source Code Editor is the central part of the jMonkeyPlatform. This documentation shows you how to make the most of the jMonkeyPlatform's assistive features.

Note: Since the jMonkeyPlatform is based on the NetBeans Platform framework, you can learn about certain jMonkeyPlatform features by reading the corresponding NetBeans IDE tutorials (in the "see also links").

Code Completion and Code Generation

While typing Java code in the source code editor, you will see popups that help you to write more quickly by completing keywords, and generating code snippets. Additionally, they will let you see the javadoc for the classes you are working with.

Code Completion

Code Generation

Semantic and Syntactic Coloring

The text color in the editor gives you important hints how the compiler will interpret what you typed, even before you compiled it.

Examples:

To customize Colors and indentation:

Editor Hints and Quick Fixes (a.k.a. Lightbulbs)

Editor hints and quick fixes show as lightbulbs along the left edge of the editor. They point out warnings and errors, and often propose useful solutions!

Javadoc

To display a javadoc popup in the editor, place the caret in a line and press Ctrl-Space (Alternatively use Ctrl-\).

Navigating the jME3 Source

When the JavaDoc does not deliver enough information, you can have a look at the source of every method or object of jME3 that you use. Just right-click the variable or method, select "Navigate > Go to source.." and an editor will open showing you the source file of jME3.

Palette

Choose Windows > Palette to open the context-sensitive Palette. The jMonkeyPlatform provides you with jme3 code snippets here that you can drag and drop into your source files.

Tip: Choose Tools > Add to Palette… from the menu to add your own code snippets to the Palette. (not available yet in alpha build)

Keyboard Shortcuts

Keyboard Shortcuts save you time when when you need to repeat common actions such as Build&Run or navigation to files.

By default, jMonkeyEngine uses the same Editor Shortcuts as the NetBeans IDE, but you can also switch to an Eclipse Keymap, or create your own set.

Tips and Tricks


See also

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