How I setup my New macOS for Development: A Step-by-Step Guide (past windows user for 10+ years)

Anmol
December 07, 2023

How I setup my New macOS for Development: A Step-by-Step Guide (past windows user for 10+ years)

So, you've just got your hands on a shiny new macOS machine, ready to dive into the world of development. Congratulations! Here's a comprehensive guide on how to set up your environment swiftly and efficiently. Let's get started with the essentials.





Step 1: Basic Setup

1.1 Update macOS

Before anything else, ensure your system is up to date. Go to the Apple menu > System Preferences > Software Update, and install any available updates.

1.2 System Preferences

Adjust your settings for trackpad, keyboard, and display preferences based on your comfort. To customize your trackpad settings, navigate to System Preferences > Trackpad.

Step 2: Package Managers and Tools Installation

2.1 Homebrew Installation

Install Homebrew, a package manager for macOS that makes installing software easier. Open Terminal and paste the following command:

/bin/bash -c "$(curl -fsSL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/Homebrew/install/HEAD/install.sh)"

2.2 Conda Installation

For managing Python environments, install Miniconda or Anaconda. Use Homebrew to simplify the process:

brew install --cask miniconda

2.3 Git Installation

Git is essential for version control. Install it using Homebrew:

brew install git

2.4 Development Tools (Python, Java, C++)

Install necessary development tools:

  • Python: With Conda installed, create a Python environment:

    conda create --name myenv python

  • Java: Download and install the Java Development Kit (JDK) from the Oracle website or using Homebrew:

    brew install openjdk

  • C++: Xcode Command Line Tools include the C++ compiler. Install them by running:

    xcode-select --install

Step 3: Code Editors and Enhancements

3.1 Visual Studio Code (VS Code) Installation

Install VS Code, a popular code editor, using Homebrew:

brew install --cask visual-studio-code

3.2 iTerm2 Installation and PowerLevel10k Setup

iTerm2 is a powerful terminal replacement. Install it via Homebrew:

brew install --cask iterm2

For enhancing your terminal experience, set up PowerLevel10k:

  • Install PowerLevel10k theme:

    git clone --depth=1 https://github.com/romkatv/powerlevel10k.git $ZSH_CUSTOM/themes/powerlevel10k

  • Update your terminal configuration file (usually .zshrc or .bashrc) to use the PowerLevel10k theme.

3.3 Additional Utilities

  • Rectangle: Simplify window management with Rectangle. Install it via Homebrew:

    brew install --cask rectangle

  • CopyClip: Facilitate clipboard management. Install it from the App Store or its website.

Step 4: Configuration and Personalization

4.1 PowerLevel10k Configuration

Follow the PowerLevel10k setup wizard to personalize your terminal appearance and configure prompt settings.

4.2 Rectangle Settings

Open Rectangle and configure shortcuts and preferences for window management according to your workflow.

4.3 Trackpad Settings

Fine-tune your trackpad preferences via System Preferences for optimal usage and gestures.

Step 4: Helpful Apps and Shortcuts

- Copy Clip
- Rectangle
- IINA
- Doodle http://onpaste.com/
- To Close apps at once : Use Shortcuts, an inbuilt app for macOS 
   https://youtu.be/H_HsZ1Cb46o?si=tGZa8f8lM-n2TitC
- Shift Option Command V , to Paste without formatting

 

Congratulations! Your macOS environment is now primed for development with Conda managing environments, VS Code as your code editor, Git for version control, and enhanced terminal capabilities with iTerm2 and PowerLevel10k. Enjoy your coding journey!