The Workbench (Setup)

A master craftsman needs sharp tools. Let's set up your environment.

1. Install Go (The Compiler)

Go is a compiled language. You need the "Compiler" to turn your text code into a binary program that the computer understands.

• Download: go.dev/dl
• Verify: Open your terminal (Command Prompt) and type:

  go version

  You should see something like go version go1.21....

2. The Code Editor (VS Code)

We recommend Visual Studio Code (VS Code). It is free and powerful.

1. Download VS Code.
2. Crucial Step: Install the Go Extension by the Go Team at Google.
   • Click the "Extensions" box on the left sidebar.
   • Search for "Go".
   • Install the one with the blue Gopher icon.

3. The Commands (Your Toolbar)

You will use three main commands in your terminal:

A. go mod init [name]

"Initialize Project" This creates a go.mod file. Think of it as the "Passport" for your project. It tells Go clearly who you are.

go mod init github.com/myname/myproject

B. go run main.go

"Test Run" This compiles your code in a temporary folder and runs it immediately. We use this 99% of the time while developing.

C. go build

"Manufacture" This creates a permanent binary file (executable). You can send this file to a friend, and they can run it without having Go installed!

---

Next: Now that the shop is open, let's learn how to read the blueprints.

🎓 Knowledge Check: What command do we use to initialize a new Go module?

Answer: go mod init <module-name>. This creates the go.mod file, which is like the ID card for your project.