While I definitely agree with the concept and use of an IDE, I also think it's good to let people know about other simpler options. On the downside, support for Python programming seems to have stopped. Built in language documentation and parameter lists.

Code snippets and auto-code commenting on functions.

Code highlighting, auto-complete, and code suggestions (also works with Moodle functions).

Support for loads of languages and frameworks (some built in and some via plugins).

Integration with Firefox and Chrome for debugging.Integration with localhost development server environments.Good project management (although loading Moodle into it will put some strain on your computer).Finds instances of function calls and definitions throughout an entire project (a life-saver when working with Moodle).GIT built in and it just works and connecting to remote repositories is simple and easy (core Moodle and most plugins use GIT and are hosted on ).The one that I prefer is It's free and open source, is relatively lightweight for what it does, has loads of plugins available, and has all the useful, time saving features you'd expect from an IDE:

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