Stop Paying for Cursor! This Free Open-Source Tool is BETTER in Every Way 🤯

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will explore how to use OpenCode, a free open-source terminal-based coding tool that can enhance your coding experience without the constraints of vendor lock-in. We'll cover its key features, setup, and how to create a basic Python to-do application using this innovative tool.

Step 1: Understanding OpenCode

• OpenCode is an open-source tool designed for terminal-based coding.
• It allows you to utilize various AI coding models without being tied to any specific vendor.
• The tool is built using Go and Bubble Tea, providing a robust tech stack for developers.

Step 2: Installation of OpenCode

• To get started, visit the OpenCode GitHub repository: OpenCode GitHub.
• Follow the installation instructions provided in the repository to set up OpenCode on your system.

Step 3: Exploring Key Features

Familiarize yourself with the following features

• LSP Integration: This feature helps in real-time error detection while coding.
• UI Walkthrough: Take some time to navigate through the user interface to understand its layout and functionalities.
• Theming Options: Customize the appearance by selecting different themes that suit your preferences.
• Built-in Commands: Learn the available commands that come pre-installed with OpenCode for efficient coding.

Step 4: Customizing User Commands

• OpenCode allows you to create custom user commands to streamline your workflow.

To create a custom command, follow these steps

1. Access the command settings in the UI.
2. Define your command and the associated action.
3. Test the command to ensure it works as expected.

Step 5: Handling Files and Images

Learn how to manage files and images effectively within OpenCode

• Use built-in commands to create, edit, and navigate files.
• Explore how to handle images directly through the terminal for projects that require visual components.

Step 6: Integrating MCP Server

OpenCode supports integration with an MCP (Model Control Protocol) server

• Set up the MCP server by following the instructions found in the documentation.
• This integration enhances the functionality of OpenCode by allowing better control over AI models.

Step 7: Running in Non-Interactive Mode

OpenCode has a non-interactive mode that is useful for automation

• Use this mode to run scripts without manual input.
• Familiarize yourself with the command line options for executing non-interactive tasks.

Step 8: Creating a Python To-Do Application

Follow these steps to create a basic Python to-do application

1. Open OpenCode and create a new Python file.
2. Write the code for your to-do app. A simple starting point might look like this:

tasks = []

def add_task(task)
    tasks.append(task)

def view_tasks()
    for index, task in enumerate(tasks)
        print(f"{index + 1}. {task}")

while True
    action = input("Type 'add' to add a task or 'view' to see tasks or 'quit' to exit: ")
    if action == "add"
        task = input("Enter a task: ")
        add_task(task)
    elif action == "view"
        view_tasks()
    elif action == "quit"
        break
    else
        print("Invalid command.")

3. Test the application to ensure it runs correctly in your terminal.

Conclusion

OpenCode is a powerful tool for developers looking for a flexible and customizable coding environment. By following this tutorial, you have learned how to install OpenCode, explore its features, customize your workflow, and even create a simple Python to-do application. For more advanced projects, consider joining the OpenCode community on Discord or visiting the GitHub page for further resources and support. Happy coding!