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Michigan State University

Vibe Coding Guide: Using GenAI for Coding Support: Tools

Resources to support MSU students, faculty, staff, and community members in learning about and using generative artifical intelligence (GenAI) for coding.

Tools Overview

There are numerous GenAI tools out there that support coding. Tools that have a chat box interface may be more inviting for individuals without coding experience. Tools with an Integrated Development Environment (IDE) may take longer to become familiar with, but they often can support more complex projects.

Below are some potential tools to explore.

Chat Box Interface Tools

AI Chatbots such as Copilot, ChatGPT, and Claude

  • Basic scripts can be created using general AI Chatbots, either creating a downloadable file or providing the script to copy into an editor

GitHub Copilot

  • Browser version allows for a chat box interface experience
  • Can be integrated into an IDE, such as Visual Studio Code
  • Learners and educators can access the Pro version for free through GitHub Education

v0

  • Chat interface provides technical guidance, code support in JavaScript and Python, and diagrams explaining programming topics
  • Installing Blocks allows the agent to write Svelte, Vue, React, and HTML/CSS

Integrated Development Environment (IDE) Tools

Replit

Bolt.new

  • AI tool for building websites and apps, including website hosting
  • Uses a token system to evaluate use. Limited tokens for free tier

PyCharm

  • Python IDE with a built in AI Assistant
  • Student Pack offers PyCharm Pro for free while you study

Cursor

  • Supports manual and AI agent coding in their IDE
  • Free plan includes limited agent requests and Tab completions

Windsurf

  • Editor designed with an integrated AI agent
  • Cascade System tracks all actions

GenAI Tool Use for Confidential Information

If confidential information (as defined by MSU Institutional Data Policy), like PII, FERPA or confidential research is involved, a request for the desired AI tool needs to be submitted via the IT Product/Solution Review Process. A full AI review, including contract, would need to be conducted.

Confidential information is only approved for use with the paid version of MSU Copilot per the AI guidance policy.