vscode-deploy-package

name: vscode-deploy-package description: "Package a VS Code extension into a .vsix file for distribution using vsce, verify pre-flight checklist (publisher, README, CHANGELOG), and install locally via CLI or GUI. Use when development is complete and the user wants to package, distribute, or install a VS Code extension." license: Complete terms in LICENSE.txt

When to use this skill

Use this skill when the development is complete and the user wants to install the extension or share it.

How to use this skill

1. Install vsce: Ensure the packaging tool is installed.

   npm install -g vsce
   

2. Package: Run the package command in the project root.

   vsce package
   

3. Result: This generates a .vsix file (e.g., my-extension-0.0.1.vsix).

Pre-flight Checklist

Before packaging, ensure:

• package.json has a valid publisher field. (If not, user can use any string for local testing, e.g., "local").
• README.md is updated.
• CHANGELOG.md is updated.
• No strict linting errors prevent compilation.

Installation

To install the .vsix file:

• GUI: Open VS Code Extensions view -> "..." menu -> "Install from VSIX..."
• CLI: code --install-extension my-extension-0.0.1.vsix