Github Copilot is Now Free: Here's How to Set It Up

Github Copilot is Now Free: Here's How to Set It Up

Step-by-step Guide on Setting Up GitHub Copilot for Free Use

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2 min read

Introduction

Three days ago, an announcement sent all developers into a happy mood. This was Microsoft's announcement of making the AI companion programmer, Github Copilot free in VS Code. As many developers will be joining the Copilot Community, I have decided to write this article to help you set up GitHub Copilot and use it for free.

The prerequisites for this tutorial include the following:

  • Internet access
  • Visual Studio Code
  • GitHub Account

Benefits of using Copilot in coding projects.

Before we set up GitHub Copilot with you, let's first explore some of the advantages you will have while using Copilot in your coding projects.

  1. Faster development. GitHub Copilot will help you with code snippets and code auto-completion hence faster typing and coding.

  2. Error reduction. With GitHub Copilot, you will have fewer code errors as it offers correct and accurate syntax and logical suggestions.

  3. Improved Learning. You will be offered opportunities to learn new languages while coding with Copilot as it has an understanding of vast language syntax.

  4. No more Stack Overflow. You won't spend much time searching for answers to your code challenges on Stack Overflow.

  5. Creativity. You will become creative as Copilot offers alternative solutions and approaches hence offering you new ideas of how to solve problems.

The benefits are much more than the above as you will get to experience the power of GitHub Copilot.

With that, let's get to the start of a journey of a lifetime.

How to Set Up Free GitHub Copilot

Step 1: Install the GitHub Copilot VS Code extension

GitHub Copilot extension

Step 2: Open Copilot Chat

Github copilot chat

Step 3: Sign in to your GitHub Account

Click Sign in to that account

setup github copilot account

Choose Sign in to Github.com

Sign in to Github

Click Allow on the pop-up

Allow Github copilot extension

_Step 4: And now Copilot is up and running

Copilot running

We have now successfully set up GitHub Copilot in your VS Code. Welcome to the journey of a life time, Dev.

Conclusion

You can explore various tips, on how to use Copilot, displayed on the screen, or click here for more Copilot tips.

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