This year, I’ve been exploring ways to streamline my workflow and boost productivity using Generative AI (GENAI) tools, and the results have been eye-opening. GENAI has quickly proven to be an invaluable companion in my development process, transforming how I approach both routine tasks and complex challenges.
One of the most impactful ways I’ve used GENAI is for generating boilerplate code. By leveraging tools like GitHub Copilot, I can create initial code structures in seconds, allowing me to skip repetitive setup and dive straight into problem-solving. This has been a game-changer for tasks that typically consume time without adding substantial value, such as setting up form validation or configuring API requests. For developers looking for a similar boost, I highly recommend checking out Copilot’s features as it’s been pivotal in my workflow improvement.
Example: Using GitHub Copilot for API Requests
For example, when I needed to set up an API request in a recent project, rather than manually writing out the entire code for making an HTTP request, I used GitHub Copilot. In just a few seconds, Copilot suggested the entire structure of the fetch request, including handling errors and parsing the response. Here’s what it generated for me.
Key considerations before starting to code:
In this example, Copilot not only handled the boilerplate structure but also suggested best practices like error handling and ensuring the response was valid. This saved me valuable time and allowed me to focus on integrating the API logic into my app rather than writing foundational code.
Another benefit I’ve experienced is using GENAI for debugging assistance. When confronted with challenging bugs or errors, I often turn to ChatGPT or Tabnine for suggestions on fixes or improvements. While these tools don’t replace hands-on troubleshooting, they offer a fresh perspective and often catch subtle issues that might otherwise go unnoticed. This approach has accelerated my debugging process, freeing up more time to focus on innovative solutions rather than backtracking through code.
Documentation has also become significantly easier with GENAI. Tools like Tabnine help me generate clear, concise comments and documentation in seconds, ensuring the entire team stays aligned without sacrificing productivity. For larger projects, maintaining comprehensive documentation is essential, and GENAI has made it possible to keep things up-to-date while moving quickly.
Beyond these specific tools, platforms like Microsoft Azure AI offer a variety of AI services for custom applications, from natural language processing to machine learning. Though I haven’t fully explored Azure’s suite yet, it’s a powerful resource that developers can leverage for creating AI-integrated applications that go beyond simple code suggestions.
In short, GENAI tools have added tremendous value to my workflow. By automating repetitive tasks, enhancing problem-solving, and simplifying documentation, GENAI is helping me work smarter, not harder. As AI technology continues to evolve, I look forward to seeing how these tools can further support developers like me and drive innovation.
Resources
For those interested in exploring some of these GENAI tools further, here are links to a few that I’ve found particularly useful:
- GitHub Copilot – Automates code completion and boilerplate generation, offering contextual suggestions as you type https://github.com/features/copilot
- ChatGPT – Useful for brainstorming debugging approaches and getting suggestions for code optimization https://openai.com/chatgpt
- Tabnine – A powerful, AI-powered code completion tool that adapts to your unique coding style: https://www.tabnine.com
- Microsoft Azure AI – A suite of AI tools and services, from NLP to machine learning, for custom applications: https://azure.microsoft.com/en-us/services/cognitive-services
Conclusion
As AI continues to make its mark on the tech world, tools like these are becoming essential for developers who want to stay competitive. GENAI has not only allowed me to work more efficiently but has also opened doors to new ways of tackling challenges in development. I’m excited to continue exploring its potential and to see how future innovations will shape our workflows even further. If you’re a developer looking to boost productivity, I highly encourage giving these tools a try!
Lee Leibrandt
Intermediate Software Engineer at Skywalk Innovations