5 Essential macOS Apps Every Programmer Should Use Daily
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Chapter 1: Introduction to Essential Apps
As a macOS enthusiast, I often seek applications that serve not just for entertainment or productivity but also enhance my coding experience. There are certain applications I keep running at all times due to their reliability and utility. Below, I present five essential apps that I utilize daily while coding.
Section 1.1: Clipboard Management with Paste
When coding, it’s common to forget function syntax, necessary library imports, or terminal commands, which can disrupt your workflow. Instead of constantly referencing a cheat sheet, consider using Paste.
Paste functions as a clipboard manager, allowing you to save all your code snippets for quick retrieval with just a few keystrokes. Simply press a designated shortcut, and a helpful menu appears.
You can organize various types of content, from code snippets to images and links, across multiple pinboards. The most advantageous feature is that your clipboard history syncs across all your Apple devices.
Section 1.2: Streamlined Multitasking with Swish
Imagine coding in your preferred IDE and suddenly needing to access several applications simultaneously. Instead of manually switching between windows, Swish allows for a more organized approach by arranging multiple windows in a grid.
This app lets you manage your windows with intuitive gestures, like swiping or pinching on your trackpad. I often use it to divide my screen, placing a tutorial on one side and my text editor on the other.
With over 30 gestures available, Swish can significantly enhance your coding workflow.
Chapter 2: Keeping Your Mac Awake
In the video "17 Awesome Mac Apps for Power Users (2022)", you’ll discover how to optimize your Mac's performance with additional applications.
Section 2.1: Preventing Sleep with Keeping You Awake
Have you ever left a long-running script and returned to find your Mac asleep? This issue plagued me until I found KeepingYouAwake.
This straightforward app keeps your Mac from sleeping with a single click. While you could leave a video playing to avoid sleep mode, that can drain your battery. KeepingYouAwake offers customizable activation times and can deactivate itself when battery levels are low.
Section 2.2: Collaborative Problem Solving with Discord
Whenever I hit a coding roadblock, I turn to Discord. While StackOverflow is excellent for previously answered questions, Discord excels in real-time assistance for unique queries related to your projects.
There are numerous programming language servers where you can connect with a community eager to help. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned coder, platforms like Tech with Tim and SpeakJS provide immediate support.
Section 2.3: Mastering Commands with Terminal
An essential tool for any programmer is the terminal, which allows interaction with your Mac through commands rather than the standard graphical interface.
Using the terminal can significantly speed up tasks like navigating directories or managing files, provided you’re familiar with command-line operations. While not strictly necessary for coding, proficiency in the terminal can enhance your overall efficiency.
Many IDEs also integrate terminal functions, so feel free to utilize that option if you prefer not to open a separate window.
Chapter 3: More Must-Have Apps
In the video "14 UNIQUE Mac Apps You Can't Live Without!", you’ll find more valuable applications to enhance your productivity.