L4 Integrated Development Environments (IDEs) 

Key Terms

• IDE – Software that combines tools for writing and testing code.

• Editor – Where you type your code.

• Debugger – A tool that helps find and fix errors.

• Syntax Highlighting – Colours that help you see different parts of code.

• Auto-complete – Helps finish your typing by suggesting code.

• Run-Time Environment – Lets you test your program inside the IDE.

What is an IDE?

An IDE is a “one-stop shop” for coding. Instead of using separate programs to write code, check for mistakes, and run your work, an IDE lets you do it all in one place.

Example: Using an IDE

Imagine you're writing a Python program to add two numbers. In an IDE like online-python / Thonny or IDLE:

• You write your code in the editor.

• Syntax errors are highlighted in red.

• You press “Run” to test it.

• If there’s a bug, the debugger shows which line caused it.

num1 = input("First number: ")

num2 = input("Second number: ")

print(int(num1) + int(num2))

Real-Life Analogy

Using an IDE is like cooking in a kitchen with every tool at your fingertips—measuring cups, stove, sink, recipe book—all in one place. Without it, you’d have to walk between different rooms to chop, cook, and clean.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

🚫 Mistake: Only using the editor and ignoring the rest of the IDE. 

✅ Tip: Try using the debugger or syntax highlighter—they make life easier!