Cursor Complete Guide: From Beginner to Expert
A comprehensive guide to Cursor AI editor - core features, tips, pricing, and best practices for AI-powered development
Overview
Cursor is an AI-first code editor built on VS Code, deeply integrating AI into the development workflow. It supports multiple AI models (GPT-4o, Claude) and offers tab completion, inline chat, and the Composer agent.
Core Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Tab Completion | Smart multi-line edits that predict your next change |
| Inline Chat (Ctrl+K) | Select code and describe the change - edits appear with diffs |
| Chat Sidebar | Codebase-aware AI conversation with @-mentions |
| Composer (Ctrl+I) | Agent mode for multi-file editing and complex tasks |
| Model Choice | Switch between GPT-4o, Claude, and other models |
How to Use
- Download from cursor.com - imports VS Code settings automatically
- Use Tab for completions, Ctrl+K for inline editing, Ctrl+I for Composer
- Reference files, functions, or code selections with @-mentions in chat
- Review all diffs before accepting AI changes
Pricing
| Plan | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Hobby | Free | 2,000 completions, 50 slow premium requests |
| Pro | $20/month | Unlimited completions, 500 fast premium requests |
| Business | $40/user/month | Team admin, centralized billing, SSO |
Pros and Cons
Pros: Deepest AI integration of any editor, multiple model options, powerful multi-file editing, familiar VS Code experience. Cons: Requires switching editors, pricier than Copilot Pro, premium request limits.
Disclaimer: Features and pricing may change. Check cursor.com for the latest details.