How to install it in VS Code + a real-world coding example
Artificial intelligence is no longer just hype — it’s a powerful tool you can use right inside your code editor, even as a beginner. In this post, I’ll introduce you to Gemini Code Assist — a free, AI-powered coding extension by Google — and show how I used it to build a simple calculator using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
What is Gemini Code Assist?
Gemini Code Assist is Google’s AI assistant designed to help developers code faster and smarter. It integrates seamlessly with Visual Studio Code (VS Code) and allows you to:
- Generate code snippets
- Explain unfamiliar code
- Fix bugs
- Auto-complete logic and structures
- Build full components with just a prompt
Think of it as your personal coding co-pilot — especially helpful when you’re stuck or learning.
How to Install Gemini in VS Code (Step-by-Step)
- Open VS Code
- Go to the Extensions tab (Ctrl+Shift+X)
- Search for:
Gemini Code Assist(by Google or Gemini Labs) - Click Install
- Sign in with your Google account (you may need access to Google Labs or Gemini beta tools)
- Once installed, activate it via Command Palette or using the Gemini sidebar icon
✅ It works in the background, so you can trigger it anytime by writing a prompt like
// Create a basic calculator using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
Real Example: Creating a Basic Calculator with AI
In the YouTube video, I put Gemini Code Assist to the test by asking it to create a basic calculator. The result?
It wrote clean, functional code that included:
✔️ HTML
A calculator layout with buttons and a display input
✔️ CSS
Simple styling to make the calculator look neat and responsive
✔️ JavaScript
Functional logic to handle user inputs and perform operations like:
- Addition
- Subtraction
- Multiplication
- Division
- Clearing the display
I didn’t write a single line manually — I simply prompted Gemini with what I wanted, and it generated the solution instantly.
Why Every Dev Should Try Gemini Code Assist
Whether you’re a:
🚀 Freelancer who needs code fast
Gemini can help you learn by doing. Unlike other AI tools, Gemini works directly with your editor and explains things step-by-step.
🧑💻 Beginner learning to code
🛠 Developer speeding up repetitive tasks
