Text Editing, with Structure

There is a plethora of programming tools in research that demonstrate the power of bringing tools directly to the code they refer to: they visualize runtime state of expressions [5], replace text with user interface elements that fit the code’s domain [6], or visualize relationships between sections of code [2]. However, programming editors that are in widespread use merely show visualizations next to lines, add formatting, or show popups and windows. It appears these editors avoid adding elements into code that could disrupt the text flow or would end up as a nuisance if they appear in the wrong spot.