Code refactoring is the process of restructuring existing code, while its outward functionality remains unchanged. By refactoring, you can simplify complex code structures, reduce code redundancy, and enhance code reusability. Visual Studio offers many tools to help refactor your C++ code. This article will delve into these tools, using the bullet3 open-source code as an example. By Mryam Girmay.
The tools reviewed list includes:
- Rename
- AI-Powered rename suggestions
- Change signature
- Extract function
- Implement pure virtuals
- Create declaration / definition
- Move definition location
- Convert to raw string literal
- Convert macros to constexpr
- GitHub Copilot for refactoring
To utilize GitHub Copilot for refactoring, begin by identifying the segment of code you wish to refactor. This could be a function, a class, or even a single line of code. Once identified, right-click on the selected code and request assistance from Copilot to refactor it. The command can be tailored to your specific needs. Upon generating a suggestion for the refactoring, it’s crucial to review this carefully. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure it aligns with your coding standards and project requirements. Once you’re satisfied with the proposed refactoring, proceed to implement the changes in your code. Nice one!
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