How to Test Our Alpha Extension: A Step-by-Step Guide

We're excited to give you a sneak peek at the alpha version of Syntax Sentry! Your feedback is invaluable at this stage. This guide will walk you through downloading, installing (loading), and testing the packed browser extension.

What is a Packed Extension?

A packed extension is typically a .crx file (for Chrome-based browsers) or a .zip file that contains all the extension's code and assets. For alpha testing, we might provide it as a .zip file that you'll load as an "unpacked" extension.

Step 1: Download the Extension File

You will receive a link to download the extension package (e.g., syntax-sentry-alpha.zip). Download this file to a known location on your computer.

If it's a .zip file, extract its contents into a dedicated folder. For example, create a folder named syntax-sentry-alpha-test and extract the files there.

Step 2: Enable Developer Mode in Your Browser

These instructions are for Google Chrome, but other Chromium-based browsers (like Edge, Brave, Opera) will have very similar steps.

1. Open your Chrome browser.
2. Type chrome://extensions into the address bar and press Enter.
3. In the top right corner of the Extensions page, toggle on "Developer mode".

Enabling Developer Mode will reveal new options, including "Load unpacked".

Step 3: Load the Extension

With Developer Mode enabled:

1. Click on the "Load unpacked" button that appeared on the Extensions page.
2. A file dialog will open. Navigate to and select the folder where you extracted the extension files (e.g., syntax-sentry-alpha-test). Do not select the .zip file itself; select the folder containing the manifest.json file and other extension assets.
3. Click "Select Folder".

If successful, you should see the Syntax Sentry extension card appear in your list of extensions. Make sure it's enabled (the toggle switch on the card should be blue).

Step 4: Testing the Extension

Now it's time to test! The specific testing procedures will depend on the current features of the alpha build. We will provide a separate document or instructions outlining what to test.

Generally, you'll want to:

• Interact with the extension's UI (if any).
• Use it in scenarios it's designed for (e.g., on coding websites, IDEs if it integrates).
• Try to break it! Edge cases and unexpected behavior are important to find.
• Note any errors, visual glitches, or confusing aspects.

Step 5: Reporting Feedback and Bugs

Your feedback is crucial. Please report any bugs, suggestions, or general thoughts through the channels we've provided (e.g., a specific email address, a feedback form, or a shared document).

When reporting a bug, please include:

• Steps to reproduce the bug.
• What you expected to happen.
• What actually happened.
• Screenshots or screen recordings if possible.
• Your browser version and operating system.

Thank you for helping us make Syntax Sentry better!