Stop Fighting Cursor: Treat It Like a Junior Dev, Not a Magic Wand

Cursor, an AI code completion tool, can be a powerful ally or a source of frustration, depending on how you use it. The key is treating it like a junior developer rather than a magic wand. This approach requires explicit file references and clear, concise prompts.

Prompts like "Add a function to calculate tax" are more likely to fail, as the AI makes assumptions about your codebase and dependencies. Instead, prompts such as "Look at @types.ts and @utils.ts. Write a function in @tax.ts that calculates tax based on the Order type. Use the calculateTax logic found in the existing code. Do not install new dependencies" are more effective.

Breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable functions also helps. This approach is akin to code review, where you prefer small, focused changes over a single, large one. The AI's strength lies in generating boilerplate code, writing tests, and explaining complex concepts like regex. However, it struggles with architectural decisions and debugging, tasks best left to human expertise.

While Cursor can significantly speed up routine tasks, it's not a substitute for your skills. Overreliance on the AI can lead to buggy code and decreased code quality. The tool is most effective when used as an amplifier of your own abilities. Start with simple tasks, refine your prompting strategy, and gradually incorporate more complex functions as you grow more comfortable with the tool. Remember, the true value lies not in the code Cursor writes, but in the efficiency it brings to your workflow.