15 Cursor AI Tricks That 10x Your Coding Speed

Cursor has become my IDE of choice. But most developers only scratch the surface of what it can do.

1. The @codebase Command

Instead of manually adding files to context, use:

@codebase how does authentication work in this project?

Cursor indexes your entire repo and finds relevant code automatically.

2. Multi-File Edits with Composer

Press Cmd+I (or Ctrl+I) to open Composer. Describe changes across multiple files:

Add error handling to all API routes and create a centralized error handler

3. The .cursorrules File

Create a .cursorrules file in your project root:

You are an expert in TypeScript and Next.js 15.
Always use server components unless client interactivity is needed.
Prefer Tailwind CSS for styling.
Write tests for all new functions.

4. Inline Generation with Tab

Type a comment describing what you want, then hit Tab:

// function to validate email and return boolean

Cursor generates the implementation instantly.

5. Smart Refactoring

Select code, press Cmd+K, and describe the refactor:

Convert this to use the repository pattern

6-15: More Power Moves

6. Use @web to include live documentation
7. Chain commands with then
8. Use @git to reference commit history
9. Generate tests with @tests
10. Debug with @errors
11. Use /edit for surgical changes
12. Create templates with /generate
13. Use @docs for your own documentation
14. Multi-cursor AI with Cmd+Shift+K
15. Privacy mode for sensitive code

The Bottom Line

Cursor isn't just an AI assistant—it's a multiplier for your existing skills. Master these techniques and watch your velocity soar.