In software tools, what do we call a text editor tailored for writing and editing source code?

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: Editor

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
Programmers work with tools that cover the full development lifecycle. The primary tool for creating and modifying source code is an editor, often with syntax highlighting, indentation support, and language aware features.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • We are focusing on authoring and modifying plain text source files.
  • Compilation and debugging are separate activities.
  • Tooling may include advanced features but remains a text editor at core.


Concept / Approach:
An editor provides efficient text manipulation, code navigation, and sometimes refactoring and linting. Integrated development environments embed editors alongside compilers, debuggers, and build systems, but the editing function remains distinct.


Step-by-Step Solution:

1) Identify the task as writing or changing source text. 2) Map the task to the tool whose primary function is text manipulation. 3) Confirm that compiling or executing is not required in the definition.


Verification / Alternative check:
Compilers translate code to machine language. Debuggers inspect running programs. Formatters reformat text. Therefore the correct label for the coding tool is editor.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Formatter adjusts layout but does not author code. Compiler translates code rather than edit it. Debugger examines execution state and errors. Linker binds objects into executables and is unrelated to text editing.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing a full IDE with the specific role of its embedded editor is common.


Final Answer:
Editor.

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