Formatting code should be easier

[TDK]

Problem:

There are a significant amount of threads where code is pasted as plaintext a thread. As an example, this one, where the user clearly searched for a way to format it as code but couldn't find how:

https://community.st.com/t5/stm32-mcus-products/failing-to-read-useful-data-from-adc-of-stm32f411/td-p/631535

The underlying issue is that formatting a code block is hidden behind the "..." in the editor.

This is despite having more than enough room to accommodate such an important feature.

Suggesting:

Consider promoting the code formatting to the main toolbar and relegating the following near-useless features to the "..." abyss:

• Spoiler tags. (Why is this a thing at all?)
• Insert video.
• Change font.
• Change font size.
• Chang text color.
• Run macro. (What even is this?)

[Laurids_PETERSEN · Accepted solution]

Thanks @TDK,
The "insert/edit code sample" is now visible in the top toolbar. This should assist users in finding the functionality better.

@Andrew Neil Thanks for suggesting the addition of the code template to "tips on posting". Having more visibility on the functionalities of the text editor is on the to-do list. 

Best regards,
Laurids

[Andrew Neil]

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@Laurids_PETERSEN wrote:

Thanks @TDK,
The "insert/edit code sample" is now visible in the top toolbar.

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So it is!  :thumbs_up: :beaming_face_with_smiling_eyes:

Use this button to properly post source code:

[TDK]

Thank you! Should be easier to find now.

[Andrew Neil]

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@Andrew Neil wrote:

Although, to be fair, on forums where it's in plain view it still doesn't get used.

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And sadly (though not surprisingly), it continues to not get used:

https://community.st.com/t5/feedback-forum/detect-mis-posted-source-code/td-p/648157

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@Andrew Neil wrote:

It's now quite common on forums that new users have to take a "tour" before being allowed to post - to make sure they know things like this.

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How about it?

[q3z85d41xqz036d]

By the way I find "spoiler tags" useful to show long output, or to avoid an overloaded post

[Andrew Neil]

Pardon? 

[q3z85d41xqz036d]

I was answering to that

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• Spoiler tags. (Why is this a thing at all?)

[Andrew Neil]

@Lina_DABASINSKAITE how about adding a note on the 'code' button into this:

https://community.st.com/t5/community-guidelines/how-to-write-your-question-to-maximize-your-chances-to-find-a/ta-p/575228

[Lina_DABASINSKAITE]

Thanks @Andrew Neil , great suggestion! I added it ;)