Cursor: Setting Up the AI Code Editor from Scratch in 2026
Cursor is a VS Code–based editor with built-in AI. Here's installation, the key modes and how to tune it to your workflow.
What Cursor Is
Cursor is a code editor with built-in AI, built on VS Code. Three things set it apart from a plain editor: it completes code with multi-line predictions, answers questions across the whole codebase, and edits files from a text request.
Since VS Code is under the hood, everything familiar works the same: extensions, themes, keybindings, terminal.
Install and Import Settings
- Download Cursor from the official site and install it like any app.
- On first launch, accept the import from VS Code — extensions, themes and keybindings carry over automatically.
- Sign in and connect your subscription.
- Open your project — Cursor indexes it for the AI.
Import takes a minute and you land in a familiar environment.
Key Modes
- Autocomplete (Tab). The AI predicts the next lines; accept with Tab. Saves time on routine code.
- Chat (Cmd/Ctrl+L). Ask a question about the code — the assistant answers with whole-project context.
- Agent (Composer). State a task — Cursor finds the files and makes edits, showing the diff before applying.
Plans
| Plan | For whom | What it gives |
|---|---|---|
| Free | trying it out | basic limits |
| Pro | individual work | advanced models, high limits |
| Teams | teams | shared billing, member management |
Teams is for when several people work on a project: it gives one bill and centralised access management.
First Workflows
- Start with autocomplete — just write code and accept good suggestions.
- For “why is there an error here” or “what does this function do,” use chat.
- Hand large tasks (“add a route and handler”) to the agent and review the diff.
- Keep the project under git — edits apply to files directly.
Payment
Officially Cursor is paid by card. Access to Pro and Teams can also be arranged with payment in USDT — no card or VPN.
Frequently asked questions
What is Cursor?
Cursor is a code editor based on VS Code with built-in AI. It completes code on the fly, answers questions about the whole project, and edits files from a text request. It's essentially VS Code with a deeply integrated assistant.
Can I import my VS Code settings?
Yes. On first launch Cursor offers to import extensions, themes and keybindings from VS Code with one click. Since Cursor is a VS Code fork, compatibility is nearly complete.
How does the Teams plan differ from Pro?
Pro is an individual subscription with advanced models and limits. Teams adds team features: shared billing, member management and centralised settings. Teams is aimed at development teams.
Do I need a subscription for Cursor?
Basic features are available free with limits. For full work with advanced models and high limits you need a Pro or Teams subscription.