Cursor is a powerful tool for coding, but it can be overwhelming at first. Here are some tips to help you get started:
1. Define Needs Clearly, Ask Precisely
Cursor works entirely based on your requirements, so be as specific as possible! For example:
❌ Bad example: “Help me write a function.”
✅ Good example: “Help me write a function named toUpperCase in a class called StringUtils that converts a string variable str to uppercase.”
This ensures the generated code aligns with your expectations.
2. Leverage Composer Mode
Composer Mode is Cursor’s killer feature. It not only generates code but also auto-creates project structures, test cases, and more. For example, generating a Todo List web app will handle both frontend/backend code and documentation.
Tip: Always “Save All” after generation, test it, then “Accept” to avoid issues.
3. Customize AI Rules for a Personalized Assistant
Under Settings > Rules for AI, set system prompts like:
- Code Style: Prioritize Java with standard conventions; frontend uses Vue3 with official style guides.
- Language: Respond in Chinese, including comments.
- Comments: Add detailed explanations for key logic.
- Naming: Java variables (lower camelCase), classes (Upper CamelCase); Vue components (lower camelCase).
- Security: Avoid unsafe Java functions; Vue uses reactive data binding over direct DOM manipulation.
This reduces post-generation tweaking and aligns with your workflow.
4. Use @codebase to Combat AI Hallucinations
In large projects, Cursor might get lost. Use @codebase to reference project files or #filename (e.g., #Main.java or #App.vue) to provide context and keep the AI focused.
5. Integrate with Git Version Control
Cursor + Git = Power duo. After generating code, commit a Git version immediately for easy rollback and comparison.
6. Restart Conversations for Stubborn Issues
If Cursor keeps generating incorrect code, close the current chat and start a new one. Why? AI might “remember” prior flawed logic; a fresh chat resets the context.
How: Click the “Close” button (top-right) and re-enter your command.
7. Free Usage Hack
After the free trial expires, you can reset it by signing out and signing in with a different account. When it complains about “too many free trials”, modify the machine ID in globalStorage/storage.json. 😉