JavaScript in VS Code

Select DOM Elements

Learn to find elements safely and connect code to page elements in this beginner-friendly Visual Studio Code lesson.

Learning outcomes

Explain how to find elements safely.
Complete the guided activity safely.
Check that you can connect code to page elements.

Before you begin

Use a non-sensitive practice folder, inspect unfamiliar code before trusting it, and never place passwords, tokens or private information in project files.

Open official guidance ↗

Step-by-step instructions

Open the intended practice workspace in Visual Studio Code and confirm its folder name and Workspace Trust state.
Select a button and output region.
Save the relevant files and review the Problems panel, terminal, Source Control view or browser preview as appropriate.
Check filenames, relative paths, console messages, keyboard use, mobile layout and privacy before continuing.
Confirm that you can connect code to page elements, then create a clear commit, backup or saved checkpoint.

Ian's practical tip: Work in one named project folder, preview after small changes, read the actual error message and keep a recoverable version before broad edits.

Practical activity

Select a button and output region. The expected result is to connect code to page elements.

Completion checklist

I used the intended safe practice workspace. I completed, saved and reviewed the activity. I checked errors, paths, browser behaviour and the saved result.