While writing JavaScript code, I often write debug messages to console using *console.log.* Though it is shorter than *System.out.println()* (hey, you Java!), which I am used to a lot, I still find it ineffective to type it every time.

So, I was following the approach to [bind console.log function to shorter name][1]. Here's another technique which is specific to Sublime Text.

[1]: https://veerasundar.com/blog/shortcut-to-console-log "Shortcut to console.log"

Using Sublime Text *Snippets* option, you can create a shortcut to a template and then you can insert that template in multiple places just by triggering the shortcut. Here's how I did it so that every time, I type *echo*, Sublime Text converts it into *console.log();*

Go to *Tools -> New Snippet*. Sublime will open a template in a new file. Now make sure you have this content in that file (or change it the way you want).

```xml
    <snippet>
    <content><![CDATA[
    console.log(
    ]]></content>
    
    <tabTrigger>echo</tabTrigger> -->
    
    <scope>source.js</scope>
    </snippet>
```

Then save this snippet file as *echo.sublime-snippet* under *Packages/User* folder. To find the location of *Packages/User* folder, in Sublime, go to *Preferences -> Browser packages* and note the location.

Restart sublime and then in a JavaScript file, start typing *echo* and Sublime will provide you with a dropdown to replace *echo* with the template you just created.

Creating a shortcut to console.log in Sublime Text 2


I have started using [Sublime text][1] as my preferred code editor (for JS, CSS, Coffee). But, I still rely on Eclipse for writing Java code because it auto-imports Java packages and auto suggests variables and method names from my custom class files.

[1]: https://veerasundar.com/blog/unix-alias-with-parameters-or-opening-sublime-text-editor-from-command-line

Working on multiple editors throws in another problem: whenever I make a change in some file outside of Eclipse, the IDE does not silently reload. It shows a blank page saying 'The resource is out of sync. Press F5 to reload'. The message started annoying me soon as I had to switch back and forth often.

It is not just for the multiple editors. Even when I do a *git pull,* the resources go out of sync.

Then, I found a workaround for this. Eclipse provides a built-in option that auto reloads a resource if its out f sync. Here's how you  can enable it.

Go to **Window -> Preferences -> General -> Workspace **and check the option **'Refresh using native hooks or polling'**.

So, the next time when you try to open a out of sync file, the IDE will sync it for you (thus saving you a keystroke, one at a time ![:)][2] ).

[2]: https://veerasundar.com/blog/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif


#sublime (2)