# Preparing the Workbench

This tutorial will get you started using the C/C++ Development Toolkit (CDT) in the Workbench.

First, you will verify that the workbench is properly configured for C/C++ development. It is assumed that:

- Your Workbench has its default settings. To reset the current perspective to its original layout, from the menu bar select Window > Reset Perspective.
- You are familiar with the basic Workbench features, such as views and perspectives.

## Setting the operation and appearance of the C/C++ Editor

1. To open the Workbench preferences, from the menu bar, select Window > Preferences.
2. Expand C/C++ and select Editor.

   Click here to see an illustration (displayed in a separate window).

3. Make any changes that you require to be comfortable editing files. For example, you might want to enable Show line numbers or change the Problem indicator color to a different shade of red. For more information about setting preferences in the editor, see General page Preferences window in the reference section.
4. On the Preferences C/C++ Editor dialog, click the Colors tab. The Colors tab for the C/C++ Editor preferences dialog displays.

   Click here to see an illustration.

   Again, make any changes that will be useful for your working habits and click OK. For more information see the Color page Preferences window in the reference section.
5. On the Preferences C/C++ Editor dialog, click the Content Assist tab. The Preferences C/C++ Editor dialog's Content Assist tab appears.

   Click here to see an illustration.

   If you want to set an auto-activation delay or change the background for completion proposals, do so now. For more information see the Content Assist page Preferences window in the reference section.

6. Leave the preferences by clicking OK.

C/C++ Editor Preferences