Fixing Private Code Comments: Filetypes & Autostart

Hey guys! 👋 Let's dive into a common hiccup when you're getting started with the Private Code Comments plugin. Sometimes, the README.md file doesn't quite match up with the nitty-gritty details you need to get things running smoothly. Specifically, we're going to talk about filetypes and autostart configuration. These little gems are crucial for making sure the plugin behaves exactly how you want it to, and where the documentation might fall a bit short. Don't worry, it's a quick fix and we'll have you commenting like a pro in no time! We'll use the information from the init.lua file. This is where the magic really happens, and it's your go-to source for the most up-to-date and comprehensive configuration options.

The README.md vs. init.lua Showdown

So, here's the deal. You might've noticed that the README.md file in the Private Code Comments repository (like this one) doesn't explicitly mention the filetypes and autostart options. This is where things can get a bit confusing, because when you're first setting things up, you might be wondering, "How do I tell this plugin which file types I want it to work with?" or "Can I make this thing start automatically when I open Neovim?"

That's where the init.lua file comes in. Think of it as the secret instruction manual. It holds all the hidden features and configuration options that might not be immediately obvious from the README.md. In this case, the init.lua file holds the key to the filetypes and autostart settings. It's like finding a treasure map that leads you to the hidden gems you need to make the plugin truly yours. By peeking inside init.lua, you'll uncover the ability to customize your experience and make the plugin work in all the various file types you want to work with. Plus, you can configure it to start automatically when you launch Neovim. The init.lua file is located at plugin/nvim/lua/pcc/init.lua within the repository. It's the place to find the most accurate and up-to-date information on how to configure the plugin. Make sure to consult this file for any configuration questions. The init.lua file is a much more comprehensive and up-to-date guide than the README.md file. Always prioritize the instructions found there.

Configuring filetypes

One of the most important configurations is how to set the filetypes correctly. You will need to explicitly set which filetypes you want the plugin to work with. To make the Private Code Comments plugin work seamlessly, especially with the languages and file types that you use most often, you need to configure the filetypes setting. This setting tells the plugin which files to look at. Without this configuration, the plugin might not recognize your files and will result in the plugin not working as expected. Let's get down to how you can add these configurations.

You can specify the filetypes option in your init.lua file, which is located in the plugin's directory. This is how the configuration should look:

 {
     pcc_binary = pcc_dir .. "/bin/pcc",
     log_dir = os.getenv("HOME") .. '/.local/state/pcc/logs',
     db = os.getenv("HOME") .. '/.local/state/pcc/db/db.sqlite',
     log_verbosity = 3,
     filetypes = {
        "java",
        "bzl",
        "c",
     },
     autostart = true,
 }

This code snippet tells the plugin to activate for java, bzl, and c files. You can change these to match the file types you frequently work with, such as lua, python, javascript, etc. By specifying the file types, you're essentially saying to the plugin, "Hey, I want you to pay attention to these types of files and allow me to add private comments to them."

This simple adjustment can be a game-changer! It ensures that the plugin is active in the right contexts and is ready to spring into action whenever you need it. Remember to save your changes to the init.lua file after adding or modifying the filetypes option.

Enabling Autostart

Next on the agenda is the autostart setting. This is a simple option that, when enabled, makes the Private Code Comments plugin load automatically every time you start Neovim. You won't have to manually start the plugin each time you launch your editor, saving you precious seconds, and ensuring a smoother workflow. The autostart option is like having a helpful assistant who is always ready to go. When set to true, the plugin will be ready to go when you start Neovim. Conversely, if it's set to false, you'll have to manually start the plugin each time.

This setting is found in the same block as the filetypes in your init.lua file. Just add autostart = true, to your configuration, and you are good to go. This makes your coding life a whole lot easier. You can change this setting at any time to suit your preferences. If you want the plugin to start automatically, set it to true. Otherwise, set it to false if you prefer to start it manually.

Fixing the vim.lsp.get_active_clients() is deprecated Warning

While we're on the topic, you might also run into the vim.lsp.get_active_clients() is deprecated warning. Don't sweat it, guys! This is a common warning that doesn't usually cause any problems with the plugin's functionality. It's like a notification letting you know that the method being used is considered old. The plugin continues to work as expected. The plugin will still function correctly, even with the warning. If the warning bothers you, you can try to ignore it, or keep an eye out for updates to the plugin that might address it in the future. So, don't let this warning hold you back from enjoying the power of private code comments.

Wrapping Up

There you have it! Configuring the Private Code Comments plugin with filetypes and autostart is a straightforward process. It's often where the documentation can sometimes be a little behind the curve. Always refer to the init.lua file. By setting the right filetypes, you make sure that the plugin is working in all of your preferred languages. You also have the flexibility to have the plugin automatically start every time you launch Neovim. You can set the autostart feature for a much smoother coding experience. The next time you're setting up the plugin, remember the init.lua file. Make sure you use the configuration options within it. Happy commenting!