Bluefish Editor: Create Webpages 5x Faster

The Enduring Role of Text Editors in Web Design

Despite the passage of several decades since the creation of the initial HTML document by the pioneering web designer, the fundamental tools utilized by professionals haven't undergone substantial transformation.

While contemporary websites frequently leverage content management systems such as WordPress or utilize visual editors like Kompozer, experienced web designers often revert to text editors for precise adjustments.

These editors are employed for fine-tuning stylistic elements or making subtle alterations to template layouts.

The Continued Relevance of Code Editing

It is anticipated that text editors will remain a vital component of the web design landscape for the foreseeable future, particularly for web developers focused on enhancing and optimizing professional websites.

Consequently, the development of more sophisticated and intelligent text editing tools tailored to the specific requirements of these dedicated professionals is a logical progression.

Evolution of Web Development Tools

The need for enhanced capabilities has driven the evolution of text editing software, resulting in tools specifically designed to meet the demands of seasoned web designers and programmers.

Optimizing and improving websites often requires direct code manipulation, making these tools indispensable.

These specialized tools offer features that streamline the workflow and provide greater control over the final product.

Bluefish: A Programmer's Text Editor

For a long time, I remained committed to using Notepad, regardless of others’ preferences. In my view, WYSIWYG editors often introduce unnecessary complexity into code, notably exemplified by Microsoft Word’s HTML saving function.

I considered trying Notepad++ upon its initial release, and later, Simon’s article on Sublime Text also sparked my interest. However, I generally prefer to avoid adopting new software until a clear leader emerges.

This year, I must admit I’ve discovered a code editor that I find irresistible – it’s called Bluefish.

Upon initial setup, one of the primary reasons for my appreciation of Bluefish becomes apparent: it’s engineered to support a vast array of programming languages, ranging from standard HTML and PHP to Java, VB, and even ASP. This level of versatility is a significant advantage in a code editor, particularly for developers working with diverse languages.

Bluefish excels in its programming capabilities. But before delving into those, I want to showcase the program’s appealing interface. I haven’t encountered another coder’s editor with such a visually pleasing design, offering essential tools and tabs readily accessible on the main screen, contingent on the code currently in focus.

As illustrated, file navigation is conveniently located on the left side, eliminating the need to constantly switch between Windows Explorer and the editor. All file management can be performed directly within the application.

This encompasses standard file explorer functionalities, such as moving or renaming folders and files.

When creating a new document via the file menu and selecting “template,” you’ll find that Bluefish provides several pre-built program templates. This feature is particularly beneficial for web developers who frequently create pages with similar structures, allowing them to bypass the need for repetitive setup.

The image below displays the standard HTML template, complete with pre-defined header, title, and body tags. Notice that lines are numbered, and the application offers auto-completion of tags as you type.

The menu bar also features pre-built code snippets for each programming language. For instance, HTML provides standard code for web forms, while PHP offers snippets for connecting to ODBC or MySQL databases.

This feature can significantly reduce development time, especially for those, like myself, who occasionally forget the precise syntax for common tasks. To implement a code snippet, the program prompts for necessary details. For database connections, it requests the data source and login credentials, then automatically generates the code.

The same applies to a wide range of HTML tasks, making this application a valuable asset for web designers. Bluefish can potentially halve the time required to code a web page. Simply select the desired element, provide the necessary information in the dialog box, and the code is automatically generated and inserted.

While not a WYSIWYG editor, I believe it’s far superior. You have a clear understanding of the desired outcome in the code, but lack the time to constantly consult reference materials for correct syntax – Bluefish alleviates this frustration.

Additional programming aids are accessible from the top menu. Selecting “Tags” while an HTML file is open reveals dozens of quick code functions.

Furthermore, the “Tools” menu provides options for code organization, including joining/splitting lines, indentation, and filtering to remove empty lines.

At the bottom of the main window, an output variable area is available for languages like PHP or C++, enabling you to verify that your code is functioning as intended.

I’m confident in stating that Bluefish has become my preferred choice for “intelligent coding” over simply writing code in Notepad. I encourage you to try Bluefish and share your experience. Does it streamline your programming workflow? What aspects do you find most valuable? Share your thoughts in the comments below.