Ignoring Files

Code Canvas allows you to configure which files should be ignored when opening them on the canvas. This helps keep your canvas clean by excluding files like node_modules, build artifacts, or other files you don't want to visualize.

Access these settings in Settings > Ignored Files.

Files listed in your .gitignore are ignored by default. If your .gitignore contains patterns that aren't already in your ignore settings, a warning will appear allowing you to add them with a single click.

The Open Command tab controls which files are ignored when opening files on the canvas—whether through the right-click context menu, opening changed files, or any other method.

Filter Types

Each filter type has a collapsible section showing the count of configured patterns. You can expand any section to view, add, or remove patterns.

Managing Patterns

• Click a section to expand it and view all patterns
• Use + Add items to add new patterns
• Click the × button next to a pattern to remove it
• Use Reset to defaults to restore the default ignore patterns
• Use Clear all to remove all patterns

The File Watcher tab controls which files are monitored for changes and which are ignored from automatic updates.

What the File Watcher Does

When enabled, the file watcher:

• Automatically updates file contents on the canvas when you make changes in your editor
• Automatically opens changed files onto the canvas if they aren't already there

This is useful for keeping your canvas in sync with your code as you work.

Glob Patterns

The file watcher uses glob patterns to determine which files to ignore. Common patterns include:

• **/*.tmp.* - Ignore temporary files
• **/.DS_Store - Ignore macOS system files
• **/.env - Ignore environment files
• **/node_modules/** - Ignore dependencies

You can toggle the file watcher and auto-open behavior from the File Actions section in the toolbar (4):

• File Watcher - Toggle automatic file change detection on/off
• Auto Open Changed - Toggle automatic opening of changed files on/off

This is useful when you want to temporarily disable automatic updates without changing your ignore patterns.