Active code completion

Abstract

In this paper, we propose a complementary technique called active code completion. When the developer invokes the code completion menu, the editor looks for a palette definition associated with the type of the expression being entered. If found, an option to use this palette is added to the code completion menu. When the developer selects this option, source code is not inserted immediately. Instead, the palette definition takes control of the code completion interface. The developer can then interact with this interface to provide parameters and other information related to her intent, and receive immediate feedback about the effect these choices will have on the object's behavior. When the developer indicates that she is satisfied with these choices, the palette generates code that is inserted at the cursor.