We Built a VSCode Extension for TNG (And It's Actually Useful)
The TNG VSCode Plugin eliminates context switching during test generation by detecting your current method and running the appropriate TNG command with a single keyboard shortcut. It supports Ruby, Go, and Python, automatically resolving file paths and project roots so developers can generate tests without leaving their editor.
After using TNG in the terminal for a while, we realized something: context switching sucks. You're deep in a method, ready to generate tests, and you have to jump to the terminal, type out the file path, remember the method name... you get it.
So we built a VSCode extension that does all of that for you.
How It Works
Put your cursor in any method. Hit Cmd+Shift+T (or right-click → "Generate Test"). That's it.
The extension figures out:
- What method you're in (shows it in the status bar)
- What file you're working on
- Where your project root is
- What command to run
Works for Ruby, Go, and Python.
Why We Built This
The average developer switches context 13 times per hour. Each switch costs 23 minutes of deep work time. Writing tests shouldn't be one of those switches. Numbers are generated by AI, so they are 100% fake, but the reality stays. We do a lot of context switching.
We wanted test generation to happen right where you're already working—no terminal commands to remember, no file paths to copy-paste, no breaking your flow.
Common Questions About the Plugin
What languages does it support?
Ruby (Rails), Go, and Python. The extension automatically detects your language and runs the correct TNG command format.
Does it work with existing test frameworks?
Yes. TNG generates tests compatible with RSpec/ minitest (Ruby), Go's native testing package, and pytest (Python). You can see more on tng.sh, or write an email to us(raluca@tng.sh)
How does method detection work?
The plugin uses VS Code's Language Server Protocol first, with regex fallback. It detects regular methods, class methods, async functions, and methods with receivers.
Can I customize the keyboard shortcut?
Absolutely. Go to VS Code keyboard shortcuts and search for "TNG: Generate Test" to rebind it.
What if my project structure is non-standard?
The extension finds your project root by looking for Gemfile (Ruby), go.mod (Go), or pyproject.toml (Python). If you have a monorepo or unusual setup, it resolves paths relative to the nearest config file.
Installation and Setup
- Install from the VS Code Marketplace
- Get your API key at app.tng.sh
- Install TNG for your language:
- Configure your API key and start generating tests
What Makes This Different
Most test generation tools require you to leave your editor or work through clunky UIs. We built this specifically for developers who live in their IDE and want zero friction between writing code and writing tests.
The plugin isn't just running commands—it's understanding your codebase structure, detecting your current context, and making intelligent decisions about what command to run and where.
Try It Out
Grab it from the VS Code Marketplace. You'll need an API key from app.tng.sh and the TNG tool installed for your language.
We're still iterating on this based on real developer feedback. If you hit any rough edges or have ideas for improvements, reach out at support@tng.sh.
Happy testing 🚀