Parameter Code Completion in PhpStorm 2016.2
In PhpStorm 2016.2, we’ve introduced a new “automatic” live template that makes it easier to complete the parameters passed into functions, methods, or class constructors. Let’s take a look at how this works.
Completing parameters with already defined variables is a pain. This update to 2016.2 really helps speed up the process of ensuring the correct variables are passed to the right parameter when you’re invoking a function, method, or instantiating a new class.
To invoke the magic live template, use the `params` keyword as the first parameter of the function, method, or class. This will automatically complete the parameters with the variable names defined in the function declaration, but will allow you to use Enter or Tab to move to the next parameter (you can use Shift+Tab to move backwards through parameters).
Notice how PhpStorm will suggest the variables based on their type (if it can infer the type from type hints or docblocks) to make finding the correct variable as easy as possible. This will work exactly the same for method parameters, and class constructors.
On its own, this really helps, but because YOLO, you can turn this functionality on by default. Then, when you invoke completion on the method, function or class, the parameters are automatically added, and your caret is placed on the first parameter ready to complete.
To turn this functionality on, you need to open your preferences pane and navigate to Editor | General | Smart Keys and then enable the option Enable smart function parameters completion.
Give it a try and let me know what you think.
– Gary and the PhpStorm Team
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