1. Ctrl + T (Go To Anything)

Forget Solution Explorer.

This shortcut alone can save hours every week.

2. Code Cleanup (Auto-Fix Your Code)

Instead of manually fixing warnings:

You get:

Pro move: bind Code Cleanup to a keyboard shortcut.

3. Multi-Cursor Editing (Alt + Click)

Edit multiple lines at once:

This is much faster than regex-based search and replace.

4. Live Templates and Snippets

Type shortcuts such as:

You can also create custom snippets for boilerplate code you repeat frequently.

5. IntelliCode (AI-Powered Suggestions)

Visual Studio learns from:

It then:

Ensure IntelliCode is enabled in settings.

6. Debug Faster with Conditional Breakpoints

Right-click a breakpoint and add conditions.

Examples:

This helps avoid stepping through unnecessary iterations, especially in loops.

7. Immediate Window

While debugging:

Run code live:

No recompiling, no logging, just instant answers.

8. Hot Reload

Change code while the application is running.

Especially useful during front-end tuning.

9. Track Changes with CodeLens

CodeLens shows:

This is especially helpful in large teams or legacy projects.

10. Peek Definition (Alt + F12)

View method definitions inline without leaving your current file.

This keeps your mental context intact and avoids opening unnecessary tabs.

11. Solution Explorer Search

Type directly inside Solution Explorer:

Combine this with Ctrl + T for advanced navigation.

12. Task List for TODOs

Add comments such as:

// TODO: Refactor this logic
// HACK: Temporary fix

View them under View → Task List.

This is useful for tracking technical debt.

13. Built-In Performance Analysis

Use the Performance Profiler to analyze:

External tools are not always required.

14. Prefer Keyboard Shortcuts Over Mouse

Useful shortcuts to memorize:

Small habits like these deliver significant productivity gains.