# AspectJ editor

The AspectJ editor extends the Java editor and provides specialized features for editing AspectJ code.

Associated with the editor is an Outline view, which shows the structure of the active compilation unit. It is updated as the user edits the compilation unit.

The editor includes the following features:

- Syntax highlighting
- Some content/code assist
- Code formatting
- Some import assistance
- Integrated debugging features

The most common way to open the AspectJ editor is to open a file from the Navigator or Package explorer using pop-up menus or by clicking the file. You can also open the editor by opening AspectJ elements from other views.

By default the AspectJ editor is used for files with the .aj extension and the Java editor for files with the .java extension. Some experienced AspectJ users may wish to use AspectJ function in .java files such as referring to ITD methods or fields, using inner aspects, implementing interfaces defined in aspects or calling methods on aspects. In this case you will see errors in the Java editor (although there will not be build errors). You may wish to either convert the file extension to .aj or use the AspectJ editor.

To open a .java file with the AspectJ editor right click, then select Open With > AspectJ/Java Editor. To use the AspectJ editor for all .java files select Window > Preferences > Workbench > File Associations. Select .java in the right-hand window, then use the section below to change the default editor.

Aspects

Creating a new aspect
Converting file extensions