Code Completion
Code completion is an AI feature that suggests code as you type, predicting what you're likely to write next based on context. Modern AI-powered completions go beyond simple autocomplete, suggesting entire functions, handling complex patterns, and adapting to your coding style.
Example
Code completion is often the first AI feature developers experience. It's unobtrusive — suggestions appear as you code, accept with Tab, or ignore and keep typing.
Traditional vs AI Completion
| Traditional Autocomplete | AI Completion |
|---|---|
| Matches symbols in scope | Predicts intent |
| Single tokens | Multi-line suggestions |
| Syntax-only | Context-aware |
| File-limited | Project-aware |
How AI Completion Works
- Context gathering — Current file, open files, project structure
- Intent prediction — What are you trying to do?
- Code generation — Generate probable continuation
- Presentation — Show as ghost text in editor
Getting Better Completions
Name things clearly: Clear variable and function names give AI better context.
Write comments first:
// validate email and return boolean before the function signature.
Consistent patterns: AI learns from your existing code — consistent style improves suggestions.
Accept and refine: Accept partial completions, then trigger again for the next part.
When Completion Shines
- Boilerplate code
- Repetitive patterns
- Standard implementations
- Typing-heavy code
When to Use Chat Instead
- Complex logic needing discussion
- Architectural decisions
- Debugging and explanation
- Multi-file changes
Completion handles the typing; chat handles the thinking.
Cursor
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