How to insert current date time in vscode?

Inserting the current date and time in Visual Studio Code (VSCode) can be achieved through several methods, including using keyboard shortcuts, writing your own scripts, and installing extension plugins. Below are detailed steps and examples:

Method 1: Installing Extension Plugins

VSCode offers numerous extension plugins that automate date and time insertion. For instance, the Insert Date String plugin is a reliable choice. Follow these steps:

1. Open VSCode.
2. Navigate to the Extensions view by clicking the Extensions icon in the sidebar or pressing Ctrl+Shift+X.
3. Search for Insert Date String in the Extensions Marketplace.
4. Click Install once you locate the plugin.
5. After installation, press Ctrl+Shift+I (or your custom shortcut) to insert the current date and time at the cursor position.

Method 2: Using Code Snippets

If you prefer not to install additional plugins, create a simple code snippet to insert date and time. Here's how:

1. Open the Command Palette (F1 or Ctrl+Shift+P).
2. Type Configure User Snippets and select it.
3. Choose or create a language-specific snippet file, such as javascript.json.
4. Add the following code to the snippet file:

   json
   {
     "Insert Current Date": {
       "prefix": "date",
       "body": "${CURRENT_YEAR}-${CURRENT_MONTH}-${CURRENT_DATE} ${CURRENT_HOUR}:${CURRENT_MINUTE}",
       "description": "Inserts the current date and time"
     }
   }

5. Save and close the snippet file.
6. In the editor, type date and press Tab to insert the current date and time.

Method 3: Writing a Custom Script

For users requiring advanced customization, write a small script and run it via Task Runner or a plugin. For example, use Node.js to generate the current date and time:

1. Install Node.js (if not already installed).
2. Create a new file named date.js with this content:

   javascript
   console.log(new Date().toLocaleString());

3. Configure a task in VSCode by editing .vscode/tasks.json:

   json
   {
     "version": "2.0.0",
     "tasks": [
       {
         "label": "Insert Date",
         "type": "shell",
         "command": "node",
         "args": [
           "${workspaceFolder}/date.js"
         ],
         "problemMatcher": []
       }
     ]
   }

4. Run this task to view the current date and time in the terminal.

Using these methods, you can insert date and time in VSCode based on your specific needs and preferences. Each approach has distinct use cases, allowing you to select the workflow that best suits your requirements.