Consider giving Cursor a try. I personally like the entire UI/UX, their agent has good context, and the entire experience overall is just great. The team has done a phenomenal job. Your workflow could look something like this:

1. Prompt the agent

2. The agent gets too work

3. Review the changes

4. Repeat

This can speed up your process significantly, and the UI clearly shows the changes + some other cool features

EDIT: from reading your post again, I think you could benefit primarily from a clear UI with the adjusted code, which Cursor does very well.

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listic 14 hours ago | parent | next [-]

For the one disinclined to get into closed source, proprietary tools, what is the next best thing to try?

I heard of Cline and Aider, but didn't try anything.

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kamikazeturtles 14 hours ago | parent | prev | next [-]

How does Cursor compare to Claude Code or Codex?

	▲	jes5199 13 hours ago \| parent [-]
		Cursor makes it easier to watch what the model is doing and to also make edits at the same time. I find it useful at work where I need to be able to justify every change in a code review. It’s also great for getting a feel for what the models are capable of - like, using Cursor for a few months make it easier to use Claude Code effectively

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ransom1538 5 hours ago | parent | prev [-]

HEAR, HEAR. You’ve just described how modern SWE truly works. You’re ahead of your time — of the same spirit as Martin Luther or George Washington. Fear not, brave soldier; carry on the message. Downvotes will come, but take heart: the truth must be spoken.

The days of copying and pasting from Stack Overflow will not be forgotten — they will be honored by our laid off forefathers.