💡 Tip: If you’re completely new to coding, take your time with each step. There’s no rush — Cline is here to guide you!

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🚀 Getting Started

Before you jump into coding, make sure you have these essentials ready:

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1. VS Code

A popular, free, and powerful code editor.

• Download VS Code

📺 Recommended YouTube Tutorial: How to Install VS Code

✅ Pro Tip: Install VS Code in your Applications folder (macOS) or Program Files (Windows) for easy access from your dock or start menu.

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2. Organize Your Projects

Create a dedicated folder named Cline in your Documents folder for all your coding projects:

• macOS: /Users/[your-username]/Documents/Cline
• Windows: C:\Users\[your-username]\Documents\Cline

Inside your Cline folder, structure projects clearly:

• Documents/Cline/workout-app (e.g., for a fitness tracking app)
• Documents/Cline/portfolio-website (e.g., to showcase your work)

💡 Tip: Keeping your projects organized from the start will save you time and confusion later!

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3. Install the Cline VS Code Extension

Enhance your coding workflow by installing the Cline extension directly within VS Code:

• Get Started with Cline Extension Tutorial

📺 Recommended YouTube Tutorial: How To Install Extensions in VS Code

✅ Pro Tip: After installing, reload VS Code to ensure the extension is activated properly.

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4. Essential Development Tools

Basic software required for coding efficiently:

• Homebrew (macOS)
• Node.js
• Git

👉 Follow our detailed guide on Installing Essential Development Tools with step-by-step help from Cline.

📺 Recommended YouTube Tutorials for Manual Installation:

• For macOS:
  • Install Homebrew on Mac
  • Install Git on macOS 2024
  • Install Node.js on Mac (M1 | M2 | M3)
• For Windows:
  • Install Git on Windows 10/11 (2024)
  • Install Node.js in Windows 10/11

⚠️ Note: If you run into permission issues during installation, try running your terminal or command prompt as an administrator.

🎉 You’re all set! Dive in and start coding smarter and faster with Cline.