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Microsoft MakeCode

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Microsoft MakeCode
Developer(s)Microsoft
Initial release2017
Repositorygithub.com/microsoft/pxt
Written inTypeScript (React)
Operating systemWeb application, Windows 10, macOS
PlatformWeb browser, microcontrollers (e.g., BBC micro:bit, Adafruit Circuit Playground)
TypeEducational programming platform
LicenseMIT License
Websitemakecode.com

Microsoft MakeCode is a free, open-source platform developed by Microsoft for creating engaging computer science learning experiences[1] that support both block-based and text-based programming.[2] It is primarily aimed at students and educators in K–12 environments.[3]

Overview

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MakeCode provides an interactive web-based environment where users can develop code for microcontrollers, including the BBC micro:bit, Adafruit boards, and others. It offers both drag-and-drop block programming (based on Google Blockly) and JavaScript or Python coding views, allowing users to transition from visual to textual coding.[4]

The platform includes features such as an integrated simulator, hardware device support, tutorials, and project sharing capabilities.[5] It is widely used in educational settings to teach the fundamentals of coding and computational thinking.[6]

Supported devices

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  • BBC micro:bit[4]
  • Adafruit Circuit Playground Express
  • Arcade (a virtual handheld game console environment)
  • LEGO Mindstorms EV3 (limited)
  • Chibi Chip, Calliope mini, and others

Features

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  • Dual editor: block-based and JavaScript/Python[3]
  • Hardware simulation
  • Extensions and custom hardware support
  • Offline editor support via downloadable apps
  • GitHub integration[7]

Licensing

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MakeCode is released under the open-source MIT License, and its source code is available on GitHub.[7]

History

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Microsoft MakeCode was first released in 2017 as part of Microsoft’s initiative to support computer science education through engaging, accessible tools.[3]

See also

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References

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  1. ^ Warren, Tom (2017-05-10). "Microsoft MakeCode helps kids learn how to program hardware". ZDNet. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
  2. ^ "Block-Based Programming Languages". Code.org. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
  3. ^ a b c "About Microsoft MakeCode". makecode.com. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
  4. ^ a b Williams, Alun (7 July 2015). "Hands on with the BBC Micro-Bit user interface". ElectronicsWeekly.com. Archived from the original on 1 October 2015. Retrieved 8 July 2015.
  5. ^ "BBC micro:bit: A pocket-sized codeable computer". micro:bit Educational Foundation. Retrieved 2025-05-23.
  6. ^ "Microsoft MakeCode Brings Easy Coding to Microcontrollers". Tom's Hardware. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
  7. ^ a b "Microsoft MakeCode GitHub repository". GitHub. Retrieved 2025-05-01.
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