Unlocking Code Automation: Dive Deep into Source Generators in C#
Introduction
The concept of generating source code isn’t new. Historically, developers have used various tools and techniques like T4 templates or code generators to automate boilerplate or repetitive code. However, these methods often resulted in a disconnect between the original source and the generated code, making it a challenge to understand and maintain.
C# Source Generators are an exciting addition to the C# compiler’s toolchain. They allow developers to generate additional source code during the compilation process. Unlike traditional code generation tools, which create a separate file that gets compiled along with the rest of your code, Source Generators produce code that’s in-memory, meaning it becomes a seamless part of the compilation without leaving any trace on the filesystem.
At its core, a Source Generator is a piece of code that runs during compilation and can inspect your program to produce additional files or change the contents of existing ones. Think of it as a metaprogramming tool; you’re writing code that writes code!
Code automation, particularly with tools like Source Generators, provides several benefits:
- Reduced Boilerplate: Every developer…
