Catalyst is a Visual Studio Code extension that aims to bridge the gap between AI-assisted coding and genuine understanding. With the rise of AI-generated code snippets, developers often copy-paste solutions without fully grasping how they work.
Catalyst makes that learning process engaging by:
Detecting pasted vs. handwritten code
Reacting with a dynamic, expressive mascot
Explaining the pasted code using an AI model
Quizzing the user to reinforce understanding
Mission
We believe that AI should support learning — not replace it. Catalyst helps ensure developers truly understand what they’re writing by:
Detecting copy/pasted code patterns vs. handwritten input
Providing clear explanations for pasted code
Generating personalized quizzes to test your comprehension
Adapting to your learning style and providing study plans
All while being accompanied by a helpful and expressive mascot!
Meet Your Coding Companion
The Catalyst mascot changes its expression based on your coding behavior:
Idle - Not typing for a while
Stern - Mostly pasting code
Happy - Mostly writing code
Features
Dynamic Emotion Detection
A 200px avatar watches your coding style and reacts based on your % of pasted vs. handwritten code.
Code Explanation
Paste a block of code and receive an instant, AI-powered breakdown of what it does and why it matters.
Quizzes
After an explanation, take a quiz to reinforce your understanding — including multiple-choice, fill-in-the-blank, and coding questions.
Learning History & Study Plans
Coming soon: track your past explanations and quiz results to build a personalized study roadmap.
How It Works
Install the extension in VS Code.
Paste code into your editor — Catalyst detects it and generates an explanation.
Interact with the avatar and take a short quiz.
Improve your understanding and reduce reliance on copy/paste and upskill yourself with custom generated study plan.
