Microsoft MakeCode

Microsoft MakeCode is a free, open-source platform developed by Microsoft for creating engaging computer science learning experiences that support both block-based and text-based programming. It is primarily aimed at students and educators in K–12 environments.^[1]

Microsoft MakeCode

Developer(s)	Microsoft
Initial release	2017
Repository	github.com/microsoft/pxt
Written in	TypeScript (React)
Operating system	Web application, Windows 10, macOS
Platform	Web browser, microcontrollers (e.g., BBC micro:bit, Adafruit Circuit Playground)
Type	Educational programming platform
License	MIT License
Website	makecode.com

Overview

MakeCode provides an interactive web-based environment where users can develop code for microcontrollers, including the BBC micro:bit, Adafruit boards, and others. It offers both drag-and-drop block programming (based on Google Blockly) and JavaScript or Python coding views, allowing users to transition from visual to textual coding.^[2]

The platform includes features such as an integrated simulator, hardware device support, tutorials, and project sharing capabilities. It is widely used in educational settings to teach the fundamentals of coding and computational thinking.^[3]

Supported devices

• BBC micro:bit^[2]
• Adafruit Circuit Playground Express
• Arcade (a virtual handheld game console environment)
• LEGO Mindstorms EV3 (limited)
• Chibi Chip, Calliope mini, and others

Features

• Dual editor: block-based and JavaScript/Python^[1]
• Hardware simulation
• Extensions and custom hardware support
• Offline editor support via downloadable apps
• GitHub integration^[4]

Licensing

MakeCode is released under the open-source MIT License, and its source code is available on GitHub.^[4]

History

Microsoft MakeCode was first released in 2017 as part of Microsoft’s initiative to support computer science education through engaging, accessible tools.^[1]

See also

• Scratch (programming language)
• Blockly
• micro:bit
• Code.org