# Creating and editing code templates

Content Assist uses code templates enable you to use commonly used code snippets quickly.

To create a code template:

1. Click Window > Preferences.
2. Expand C/C++, and click Code Templates.
3. Click New.

4. Do the following: (if required)

   - In the Name field, enter a template name.
   - Select Structure, Global or Function for either C or C++ from the Context drop down list.
   - In the Description field, enter a description for your new code template.
   - In the Pattern field, enter the code for your template.
   - Click Insert Variable to add a variable from the list to the code you have entered in the Pattern box.
5. Click OK.
   The new code template is now displayed in the list.

To edit a code template:

1. Click Window > Preferences.
2. Expand C/C++, and click Code Templates.
3. Click Edit. The New Template dialog box opens.

4. Do the following:

   - In the Name field, change the template name to create a new template based on the current template.
   - Select Structure, Global or Function for either C or C++ from the Context drop down list to select where the template will appear.
   - In the Description field, change the description of the code template to reflect your changes.
   - In the Pattern field, edit the code.
   - Click Insert Variable to add a variable from the list to the code you have edited in the Pattern box.
5. Click OK.

Content Assist

Using Content Assist
Importing and exporting code templates

Code Templates page, Preferences window
Code Templates page