I Built an AI Coding Assistant Because I Got Tired of Context Switching

Creation of Coda AI, a VS Code extension designed to eliminate the workflow friction of constantly switching between a code editor and a browser to use AI tools. Unlike basic AI assistants, Coda understands the entire project structure, can autonomously inspect code, propose changes, and execute commands while keeping the user in control through approval prompts. It also supports multiple AI providers and the Model Context Protocol (MCP) for flexible, external tool integration.

AI coding tools are everywhere. And yet, my workflow kept breaking the same way: Write code → leave VS Code → open browser → ask AI → copy response → come back → repeat. Every switch costs focus. Those interruptions add up. I wanted an assistant that lived inside the editor and could handle real development work — not just answer questions. So I built Coda AI. Coda AI is a VS Code extension with: Here's what I focused on when building it. Coda understands your project structure — not just the file you have open. It uses your actual codebase as context, so responses are grounded in your real code, not generic examples. Instead of asking: "How do I fix this?" You hand it a task and let it run: The agent can inspect code, propose changes, execute commands, and iterate — with approval prompts for sensitive actions so you stay in control. One thing that consistently bothered me about AI tooling: you adopt a workflow, then you're stuck with one provider. Coda supports: If a better model ships tomorrow, your workflow doesn't need to change. This was one of my favourite parts to build. Coda supports the Model Context Protocol MCP , so the agent can work with external tools automatically: No hardcoded integrations. You plug in what you need. Developer tooling isn't only about adding intelligence. It's about reducing friction. The fewer times you leave flow state, the better the tool. Intelligence without integration is just another tab to switch to. Coda is still early, and I'm actively improving it. If you're a developer, I'd genuinely value your input: What would make an AI coding assistant actually useful in your day-to-day workflow? Drop your thoughts in the comments — critical feedback welcome. 🔗 Install on the VS Code Marketplace Built by a developer who got tired of switching tabs. Shipping, not just talking about it.