Enhancing Your Workflow: How to Display the VS Code Output Window to the Side

Learn how to display the VS Code output window to the side instead of below by adjusting your layout settings for a more efficient coding experience.
Enhancing Your Workflow: How to Display the VS Code Output Window to the Side

Displaying VS Code Output Window to the Side

Introduction

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a powerful code editor that provides a variety of features to enhance the productivity of developers. One common need among developers is to customize the layout of the editor to suit their workflow. By default, the output window in VS Code is displayed below the editor, which can sometimes be less convenient, especially for those who prefer a side-by-side view of their code and outputs. In this guide, we will explore how to display the output window to the side, similar to chat windows in applications like chatgpt.com.

Understanding the Layout

VS Code utilizes a flexible layout system that allows users to rearrange panels and sidebars according to their preferences. The output window is one of the panels that can be docked in various locations. By adjusting the layout, you can create a more efficient coding environment that aligns with your personal or project-specific workflow.

Steps to Move the Output Window

To change the position of the output window in VS Code, follow these steps:

  1. Open the Output Window: First, you need to open the output window. You can do this by navigating to the menu bar and selecting View > Output, or you can use the keyboard shortcut Ctrl + Shift + U (Windows/Linux) or Cmd + Shift + U (Mac).
  2. Undock the Output Panel: Once the output window is open, you will notice that it is docked at the bottom of the screen. To undock it, look for the '...' (more actions) button in the upper right corner of the output panel and click on it. From the dropdown menu, select Move Panel Right.
  3. Adjust the Size: After moving the output panel to the right, you may want to adjust its size. Hover your mouse over the edge of the output panel until the cursor changes to a resize icon. Click and drag to resize the panel according to your needs.
  4. Rearranging Other Panels: If you have other panels or sidebars open, you may want to rearrange them as well. You can drag and drop these panels to different locations, allowing you to customize your VS Code layout further.
  5. Save Your Layout: VS Code remembers the layout settings you choose. If you close and reopen the editor, your output window will remain in the position you set. This functionality allows you to create a consistent working environment across sessions.

Benefits of Side Panels

Displaying the output window to the side offers several advantages. First, it enhances visibility, allowing you to monitor outputs without losing focus on your code. This is especially useful during debugging sessions, where real-time feedback is crucial. Second, it optimizes screen space, making it easier to view multiple files or outputs at once. Lastly, a side-by-side layout can reduce the need for excessive scrolling, leading to a more efficient coding experience.

Conclusion

Customizing the layout of Visual Studio Code by moving the output window to the side can significantly enhance your coding productivity and workflow. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can create an environment that caters to your specific needs, similar to how chatgpt.com displays its chat interface. Experiment with different configurations to find the best layout that works for you, and enjoy a more organized coding experience!