Setting Up Claude Code in VS Code

Super quick setup guide for Claude Code integration with VS Code, covering installation, keyboard shortcuts, configuration options, and troubleshooting steps.

Jonathan Evans

Published May 23, 2025

Last modified May 23, 2025

InstallationRun  claude update  in your terminal to ensure you have version > 1.0
Open VS Code
Open the integrated terminal in VS Code
Run  claude  in the terminal - the extension will auto-install
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UsageLaunch Claude interface: Cmd+Esc (Mac) or Ctrl+Esc (Windows/Linux)
View and apply file diffs directly in editor
Insert file references: Cmd+Option+K (Mac) or Alt+Ctrl+K (Windows/Linux)
Selection context is automatically shared with Claude
Diagnostic errors from the IDE are automatically shared with Claude
Shortcuts! for bash mode
? for commands
@ for file paths
# to memorize information
Double tap esc to undo
Shift + tab to auto-accept edits
Backslash (\) + Return (↵) for newline
ConfigurationRun `/config` in Claude Code to configure settings
Set diff tool to `auto` for automatic IDE detection
Claude Code will use the appropriate viewer based on your IDE
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External Terminal ConnectionIf using Claude in an external terminal (not VS Code's integrated terminal):
Use the  /ide  command after launching Claude Code
Start Claude from the same directory as your VS Code project root
TroubleshootingIf the VS Code extension isn't installing:
Ensure the `code` command is available in your PATH
Use Cmd+Shift+P (Mac) or Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows/Linux) and search for "Shell Command: Install 'code' command in PATH"
Check that VS Code has permission to install extensions
DocumentationFor more information:  See the official Claude Code docs 
 