A dev’s perspective on building a full-stack code editor

Building a full stack code editor

Building a full-stack code editor from scratch is a challenge that tests both your technical and problem-solving skills. That’s what happened as I delved into this project. It pushed me to think beyond the basics, combining the power of React.js for the front end, Node.js for the backend, and the JDoodle API for executing code in the easiest way possible.

Let us walk through how I approached this project, tackled challenges, and used tools to create a user-friendly code editor. Whether you’re a developer embarking on a similar journey or simply curious about the behind-the-scenes process, this blog has something for everyone.

Creating the frontend

The front end is the face of any application, and for a code editor, it needs to be both functional and visually appealing. I chose React.js, a library known for building dynamic and efficient interfaces, to ensure the editor was responsive, modular, and easy to use.

Core components of the front end

Code editor

Includes syntax highlighting and a simple design to help users focus on coding. Supports multiple programming languages for versatility.

Input column

Makes it easy to add runtime inputs for programs, ensuring smooth execution.

Output column

Displays output clearly, with detailed error messages to assist with debugging.

Key features:

• Modular design for easy scalability.
• Optimized for various screen sizes with responsive layouts.
• Smooth state management using React Hooks like useState and useEffect.

Developing the backend

The backend is the brain of the application, handling requests and executing code accurately. Using Node.js, I built a robust backend that bridges the front end and JDoodle API.

Backend workflow

Data reception and validation

Checks frontend inputs like code, language, and arguments to ensure they are complete and secure before processing.

JDoodle API integration

Runs the code in real-time using the JDoodle API, which supports multiple languages and returns results or errors.

Response handling

Processes API responses and formats them for the front end to give users clear feedback.

Challenges that I faced along the way

• Asynchronous Operations: Handling multiple requests simultaneously required efficient use of Promises and async/await to avoid blocking operations.

• Error Handling: Robust mechanisms were implemented to catch runtime exceptions, ensuring the backend remained stable under stress.

• Security: API keys were secured using environment variables managed with dotenv.

Why the JDoodle API was a game changer

When creating a code editor, one of the biggest hurdles is implementing a reliable and scalable code execution engine. Instead of building one from scratch, I integrated the JDoodle API, a tool that’s designed for real-time code execution.

Why I chose JDoodle

Multi-language support

The API supports many languages, making it useful for developers with different needs.

Real-time feedback

Delivers results quickly for a seamless user experience.

Clear documentation

JDoodle’s organized documentation made integration simple and efficient.

Scalability and reliability

Managed high-frequency requests smoothly, ensuring consistent performance.

The final product

Bringing together the frontend, backend, and JDoodle API resulted in a highly functional code editor. With this editor, users can:

• Write code in various programming languages.

• Provide runtime inputs directly through the interface.

• View outputs or debug errors in real time.

The modular design and use of various technologies created an application that is easy to use and visually clear.

What I learned during this process

Modular design

Breaking the project into smaller, reusable components made development simpler and debugging easier.

Error handling

Implementing strong error-handling mechanisms in both the backend and frontend ensured a stable application.

Using APIs for efficiency

JDoodle’s API eliminated the need to build an execution engine, saving time and resources.

Security practices

Protecting sensitive data like API keys was essential, with tools like dotenv adding extra security.

State management

Managing the state effectively in the front end ensured smooth data flow and improved user experience.

Tell us more

Building this code editor has been one of the most enriching experiences of my development journey. It combined creativity, problem-solving, and technical expertise to bring an idea to life.

If you’re working on a similar project or exploring JDoodle, we’d love to hear about your experiences. What challenges have you faced, and what solutions have worked for you? Let’s connect and grow together!