Are you learning how to code? Whether you code for fun or want to carve out a career in software development, you need to familiarize yourself with Notepad++. This is the Windows go-to product and the most popular open-source source code and text editor used by programmers, developers, and tech professionals worldwide.
One of the most significant drawbacks of this program is that it was developed for Windows and works exclusively on that platform. Therefore, Mac users cannot use Notepad++. However, there’s no need to worry because there are viable alternatives for Mac users like CodeRunner, Whisk, and Brackets. To know more, click https://setapp.com/how-to/alternative-to-notepad++-for-mac.
As for those working on a Windows computer and eager to learn more about Notepad++, keep scrolling.
What is Notepad++, and why Do You Need it?
Notepad is an open-source, free source code and text editor used by developers and programmers. It is a handy tool that runs in Windows environments and supports eighty programming languages, including Visual Basic, Ruby, CSS, HTML, and Pascal.
The program is free to download, and you can access it on its official website under the GNU General Public License. The most current version of this product is Notepad++ 8.4.9, released on January 31, 2023.
Notepad++ is an effective text editor used to write source code and documents. It is an upgraded version of MS Notepad and is used by tech professionals and developers as a day-to-day tool for extensive file-parsing and note-taking. In addition, the program is versatile because it offers online support, features a customizable graphical UI, and users can share plugins.
What are the System Requirements for Running Notepad++?
To run Notepad++, you must meet the following requirements:
- Notepad++ can be downloaded on Windows Vista, XP, and Windows versions 7, 8, 8.1, 10, and 11.
- 512MB RAM is required to run Notepad++ without a glitch.
- You must leave about 100MB of free disk space for downloading and using Notepad++. The program only consumes a little space in the hard drive, so you do not need to invest in additional equipment.
Additionally, you must ensure to have a robust keyboard so that you can access it for your typing needs. If you have a touchscreen or only a mouse, it will be difficult for you to use Notepad++.
What are the Use Cases of Notepad++?
- Notepad++ is lightweight and fast
The application is lightweight and only takes up 100MB of storage space in a computer’s hard drive. The program loads fast and is perfect for working with large text files. The tool is considered one of the best for extensive file-parsing.
- Multiple coding languages are supported
Notepad++ is ideal for programmers because the app supports multiple coding languages. Programmers can use this tool to edit tasks, and you change the coding language in settings. The tool will follow the set code formatting and can recognize languages like Pascal, Unix, Java, CSS, Ruby, HTML, and Visual Basic.
- Multiple files can be opened at once
On this tool, you can use unlimited tabs. Therefore, it is very convenient for handling several text files. In addition, multitasking is easy, and there’s no lagging, unlike other text editors.
- Easily find strings in text files
When doing an impact assessment of source code, you can search for a string in text files. Then, you must type the search code into the text editor, which will return all results.
- The tool comes with plugin features
When you download the application, you will get different plugin features. You can select which one to add to the installation directory. You can use the import setting and install your favorite plugins if you need any other plugins that are unavailable in the application.
Helpful Tips to Efficiently Use Notepad++
- Dark mode
Do you prefer working with a dark background? If so, you can set the display to dark mode. Head to Settings > Preferences > Enable dark mode. You must close the application and restart it to view the new setting.
- Column editing
On Notepad++, you can create columns in a jiffy by pressing the Alt key and highlighting the text you wish to put in columns. Also, you can press Alt + Shift + Arrow to highlight the text.
- View word count
By using plugins, you can view your word count. But if you do not have any, you can go to View > Summary and use the in-built Summary function. Double-click on the lines or lengths in the status bar to check the word count.
- Automate the tasks
You can automate the tasks by recording them and then instructing the tool to complete them using macros. You do not have to perform monotonous, repetitive tasks. You will find the macro section in the navigation menu.
The Bottom Line
Now you know everything you need to know about running and using Notepad++.
