Instructional Guide

How to Open a GitHub Repository in Visual Studio Code

Introduction: This guide provides users with step-by-step instructions on how to open a GitHub Repository in VS Code.

From GitHub Desktop

1. Open GitHub Desktop and choose the repository you want to open by clicking “Current repository” located in the top left.


2. Select “Repository” located in the top menu bar and click “Open in Visual Studio Code.”


• The main page should also display an option to “Open in VS Code.”

This should open VS Code and the local folder where the repository is located.

From GitHub Profile

1. Open the GitHub profile menu in the top left and click on “Repositories.”


• Your top repositories will also be accessible at the end of the menu.


2. Click on “My Repositories” located on the left and then select your desired repository.


• If you are starting a new repository, click the green button on the right labeled “New Repository.”


3. Click on the dropdown menu titled “Code” and select “Open with GitHub Desktop.”


4. Use the steps provided in the previous section to open in VS Code.

Troubleshoot: If “Open in VS Code” isn’t displayed

1. In GitHub Desktop, click on “File” and select “Options” (Windows) or “Preferences” (Mac).


2. Navigate to the “Integrations” section and select Visual Studio Code under External Editor.