How to Reset Visual Studio Code Settings and Restore Defaults

Introduction

Visual Studio Code (VS Code) is a highly customizable code editor, allowing developers to tailor their workspace with various settings and extensions. However, sometimes these customizations can lead to confusion or unwanted changes in the user interface, such as accidentally hiding the menu bar. In this tutorial, we will explore multiple methods for resetting VS Code settings and restoring defaults, ensuring you can return your environment to its original state.

Understanding Settings Files

VS Code stores user-specific configurations in a file called settings.json. This file is located at different paths depending on your operating system:

• Windows: %APPDATA%\Code\User\settings.json
• macOS: $HOME/Library/Application Support/Code/User/settings.json
• Linux: $HOME/.config/Code/User/settings.json

By editing or deleting this file, you can reset settings to their default state. Additionally, extensions are stored separately and can be managed independently.

Resetting the Menu Bar

If you’ve accidentally hidden your menu bar in VS Code, a quick fix is available:

1. Toggle the Menu: Press and hold the Alt key on Windows or Linux. On macOS, use the Command + F10. This action will reveal the menu, allowing you to toggle its visibility through the "View" menu.

2. Restore Default Settings: If you need more extensive changes:

   • Open the command palette using F1.
   • Type and enter Preferences: Open Settings (JSON).
   • Locate any custom settings related to the menu bar and remove them, or delete its contents entirely for a full reset.
   • Save the file.

Resetting Settings Manually

For those who prefer manual control over resetting their VS Code environment:

1. Accessing settings.json:

   • Navigate to your operating system-specific path listed above.
   • Open and either modify or delete the contents of settings.json.

2. Delete User Data (Optional):

   • If you wish to completely start anew, consider removing user data folders. The specific paths are:
     • Windows: %userprofile%\AppData\Roaming\Code
     • macOS: $HOME/Library/Application Support/Code and related cache directories.
     • Linux: $HOME/.config/Code

   Be cautious with this step, as it will erase all custom settings and extensions.

Resetting Extensions

To manage installed extensions:

1. Locate Extension Folder:

   • Windows: %USERPROFILE%\.vscode\extensions
   • macOS/Linux: ~/.vscode/extensions

2. Delete Extensions: You can clear this folder to remove all installed extensions, starting fresh.

Restoring Individual Settings

If you only wish to revert specific settings without a full reset:

1. Open the settings menu by pressing Ctrl + , (or Cmd + , on macOS).
2. Use the search bar at the top to find particular settings.
3. Identify modified settings by their blue highlight and use the gear icon that appears when hovering over these entries to revert them to default values.

Conclusion

Resetting Visual Studio Code can quickly resolve interface or performance issues caused by unintended changes in settings or extensions. Whether you choose a simple toggle of the menu bar, modify specific configurations in settings.json, or start from scratch by deleting user data, these steps will guide you through restoring your VS Code environment to its default state.