In our previous discussion, we mentioned using a local model for code completion. However, some users may not have the necessary hardware to support this method. While AI coding tools are great, most of them either cost money or require a powerful computer to run, which can be a problem for beginners.
That’s why we’re excited to introduce you to Windsurf, an IDE that’s a fork of VScode and is actually faster. And the best part? It’s completely free to use, offering unlimited code completion and cascade support. Cascade is their chat and code editing tool, which is truly impressive. And guess what? It’s currently free to use thanks to their generous offer of their proprietary AI model, SWE-1.
Think of Windsurf as having a coding buddy who helps you write code and answers your questions, all without spending a single penny.
What Can Windsurf Do?
Windsurf provides two powerful features:
Auto Code Completion: As you type, it predicts what you want to write next. Simply press Tab to accept the suggestion.
Cascade: This is like ChatGPT but specifically designed for coding. You can ask it questions, get explanations, or even request it to write entire functions for you.
System Requirements
Don’t worry, Windsurf doesn’t require a super powerful computer. Here’s what you need:
– Windows: Windows 10 or later
– Mac: macOS 10.15 or later
– Linux: Ubuntu 18.04 or later (or similar)
– RAM: At least 4GB (8GB recommended)
– Storage: Around 500MB free space
If your computer can run Visual Studio Code, it can also run Windsurf.
How To download and install Windsurf
To find Windsurf simply search for it on Google and click on their official website: https://windsurf.com/. This will take you to their homepage, as shown in the screenshot below.
Depending on your system, you’ll see a download button. Click on it to download the software. The installation process is straightforward and similar to installing any other software.
Once installed, open Windsurf. You may need to sign up for a free account. Don’t worry, it’s quick and easy.
As mentioned earlier, Windsurf offers two essential features: auto code completion and cascade support. To enable auto code completion, click on the settings icon, then navigate to windsurf settings, scroll down, and check the Windsurf Tab. You’ll find the Autocomplete option, which needs to be enabled. Below that, there’s an Autocomplete Speed option, which should be set to Fast, as shown in the screenshots below.
This ensures that the suggestions appear quickly while you’re typing. Now, create a python file with a .py extension and start by adding a comment. Then, type some code at the beginning, like this: number = (if code pertains to numbers). As shown in the screenshot below, Windsurf will predict what you’re referring to based on the comment and the code.
Here’s another simple example to try:
# Calculate the sum of two numbers
def add_numbers(a, b):
After you type this, Windsurf will suggest the rest of the function. Simply press Tab to accept it. Isn’t that convenient?
Using Cascade – Your AI Coding Assistant
Cascade is the real game changer. It appears on the right-hand side of the Windsurf IDE as shown in the screenshot below..
Here’s how to use it:
· Click the Cascade icon in the top right corner of Windsurf, OR
· Use the keyboard shortcut: Cmd+L (Mac) or Ctrl+L (Windows/Linux)
Two Modes in Cascade:
Cascade has two modes you can switch between:
- Chat Mode – For asking questions and getting explanations without modifying your code
- Code Mode (also called Write Mode) – For actually creating and editing your code files
To switch between these modes:
- Click the mode button under the chat input box, OR
- Use the keyboard shortcut: Cmd+. (Mac) or Ctrl+. (Windows/Linux)
What You Can Do:
In Chat Mode, ask questions like:
- “How do I read a file in Python?”
- “Explain what this function does”
- “What’s the difference between a list and a tuple?”
In Code Mode, give instructions like:
- “Create a function to calculate factorial”
- “Fix the bug in my code”
- “Add error handling to this function”
Cascade will not only answer your questions but can also write code directly in your files when in Code Mode. It’s like having a tutor and a coding partner available 24/7.
Choosing Your AI Model:
Windsurf gives you access to different AI models in Cascade:
- SWE-1 Model – This is Windsurf’s own model, available for free for a limited time. It’s great for most coding tasks.
- Premium Models – You also get 25 free credits per month to try out more powerful premium models like GPT-4 or Claude.
To switch between models:
- Click on the model name (usually shows “SWE-1” at the top of Cascade), then select your preferred model, OR
- Use the keyboard shortcut: Cmd+/ (Mac) or Ctrl+/ (Windows/Linux)
Start with SWE-1 for everyday coding, and save your premium credits for more complex problems or when you need extra help.
Tips for Getting the Best Results
Here are some simple tips to maximize your Windsurf experience:
– Write clear comments: The better your comments, the more accurate the suggestions. Instead of writing “# loop”, write “# loop through all numbers and find even ones.”
– Accept suggestions with Tab: When you encounter a gray suggestion, simply press Tab to accept it.
– Use Cascade for explanations: If you’re unsure about something, ask Cascade to explain it in simple terms.
– Start small: Begin with simple projects to get comfortable with the tool.
Things to Keep in Mind
While Windsurf is an incredible tool, here are a few things to remember:
– It’s currently free, but this might change in the future, so enjoy it while it lasts.
– Check the suggestions: AI isn’t perfect, so always read and understand the code it suggests.
– Internet connection is required: Windsurf needs an internet connection to function since it connects to their AI model.
Learn, don’t just copy – Use it as a learning tool, not just a code generator.
What if something goes wrong?
If autocomplete isn’t working:
– Check your internet connection.
– Make sure autocomplete is enabled in settings.
– Try restarting Windsurf.
If Cascade isn’t responding:
– Check if you’re signed in.
– Refresh the Cascade panel.
– Check Windsurf’s status page for any outages.
Final Thoughts
By following these steps, you can write and learn coding from one of the great IDEs, Windsurf, for free. That’s what truly matters for beginners. You get professional-level tools without the professional-level price tag.
The best way to learn is by doing. So download Windsurf, create your first Python file, and start coding. Don’t be afraid to experiment. Ask Cascade questions. Try out the autocomplete. Make mistakes and learn from them.
That’s how every great programmer started, and now you have an AI assistant to help you along the way.
Happy coding!
