Interface & layout
Gud API splits work between the sidebar (navigation and lists) and the request panel (build and send). Everything follows your editor's theme.
Activity bar
The Gud API icon sits in the activity bar (vertical strip on the far left). One click opens the Gud API sidebar. If you do not see the icon, right‑click the activity bar and ensure Gud API is checked.
Sidebar
Typical sections include:
| Area | Purpose |
|---|---|
| History | Recent requests — click to reload into the builder (last 100). |
| Collections | Saved requests and folders — open, rename, delete, organize. |
| Environments | Named sets of variables for |
| Import | Bring in Postman, Thunder Client, or OpenAPI files. |
Exact labels can vary slightly by version; the goal is always quick access to history, saved work, and variables.
Request panel
The main panel is where you:
- Pick the HTTP method and URL
- Edit query params, headers, and body
- Configure authentication
- Click Send and read the response
For field-by-field behavior, see Sending requests and Responses.
Command Palette
All commands are under the Gud API prefix. Useful examples:
| Command | What it does |
|---|---|
| Gud API: Open Gud API | Opens or focuses the request panel |
| Gud API: New Request | Starts a fresh request |
| Gud API: Import Collection | Starts an import flow |
| Gud API: Refresh Sidebar | Refreshes sidebar lists |
| Gud API: Show Log | Opens extension log output |
| Gud API: Show Sync State | Pro — sync-related diagnostics |
Open the Command Palette with Cmd+Shift+P (macOS) or Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows/Linux), then type Gud API.
Storage: global vs workspace
By default, collections and environments live in your editor's global storage (not inside your repo). You can switch to a workspace .gud-api folder in settings — useful for committing shared API definitions. See Settings (gudApi.storageLocation).