To run code on the microcontroller, the first step after importing a project is to compile the source code and then building the project.

Compilation generates the different object files from their corresponding source files while checking the source files for syntax errors.

Linking the project links together all the object files and generates a binary .out file. This .out file should be sent to the microcontroller and can then be executed or debugged.

The "build" instruction in CCS combines the two steps of compilation and linking into one step.

For the purpose of demonstration, we are using 'impatient-led'. You might be debugging a different project.

 After importing the project into CCS, you should be able to see the project displayed on the 'Project Explorer' window

If for whatever reason, you cannot see the "Project Explorer" window, go to View -> Project Explorer.

When working on multiple projects, it is important to ensure all project operations like build, debug are performed on the correct project. To select a project to work on, simply click on the project name in the Project Explorer window. That project will become the 'Active - Debug' project.

Select the project you like to debug from the Project Explorer window. Go to Project -> Build Project or click on the hammer symbol on the toolbar. This will compile all the source files and build the project.

When the compilation and build finishes, the 'console' window will show several compilation commands. The last few lines should read 'Finished building target: ***.out' and 'Build finished' where *** is the name of your project. 

Now the project is ready to be programmed on the microcontroller.