Building a Beginner-Friendly Web Code Editor with AI Help (HTML, CSS & JS Live Preview)

As someone who's still learning and exploring the world of web development, I recently started a really cool project: building my own web-based code editor! My goal was to create a place where I could write, edit, and learn HTML, CSS, and JavaScript right in my browser.

Check it out in action here: Launch the Editor

The best part? I’ve been using AI tools like ChatGPT and Gemini to help me build it – and it's been an amazing learning experience!

This project is still a work in progress with lots of ideas for future updates, but many core features are already working and helping me learn faster.

Phase 1: Getting Started with ChatGPT

When I first thought about building a code editor, it felt overwhelming. That’s where ChatGPT came in—it was like having a personal tutor! With its help, I was able to set up:

• A responsive layout: So the editor looks good on both desktop and mobile devices.
• Syntax highlighting: Colorful, readable code for HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• A "Run" button: Preview your code output instantly in the browser!

ChatGPT helped me understand how each part works and guided me through building the basic structure. It gave me a solid foundation to keep growing from.

Phase 2: Adding Cool Features with Gemini – Live Preview!

Once the basics were in place, I wanted to go further. My big idea: see code changes live as I type! That’s when I turned to Gemini for help with more advanced features:

• Real-time Live Preview: Watch your HTML, CSS, and JS update instantly while you code!
• Editable Preview Area: Click on text in the live preview and edit it—the HTML updates automatically!
• CSS Editing: Change styles like colors and sizes visually, and see the updated CSS code in real time.
• JS Property Inspector: View how your JavaScript is interacting with page elements.

With Gemini’s help, I added interactive, visual tools that make learning and building so much easier—and way more fun!

Why This Tool Is Great for Learners (Like Me!)

This code editor isn’t just a side project—it’s become one of the best ways for me to learn and experiment with web development. Here's why:

• See code in action instantly—perfect for beginners and fast learners alike.
• Visual feedback helps connect code with real results on the screen.
• Try new things fast: Test out HTML tags, CSS styles, or JS snippets without opening extra tools.

I'm excited about where this is going. It’s still in the early stages, but I already love using it to improve my skills and explore web technologies.

What’s Next?

I have tons of ideas—from adding more editing tools to improving mobile support and maybe even saving your work in the browser. But for now, it’s all about learning and growing!

What do you think? Have you ever used AI tools like ChatGPT or Gemini to build or learn something? Got any suggestions for what to add next to my code editor? Let me know in the comments below!