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TulipBetterComments

A Delphi IDE plugin that enhances code readability by colorizing comments dynamically based on specific prefixes.

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README

TulipBetterComments

A Delphi IDE plugin that enhances code readability by colorizing comments dynamically based on specific prefixes.

Features

The plugin intercepts the IDE's text paint events to apply custom colors to comments without altering the actual syntax highlighter. It automatically adapts colors for both Light and Dark IDE editor themes for optimal contrast and readability.

Screenshot 2026-06-05 at 15 14 19

Supported prefixes (both compact like //* and spaced like // * are supported):

  • //* - Renders in Red (Ideal for critical notes, bugs, or errors).
  • //! - Renders in Orange (Ideal for warnings or important alerts).
  • //? - Renders in Blue (Ideal for questions, to-dos, or reviews).
  • //> - Renders in Yellow / Gold (Ideal for notices, tips, and insights).
  • //ai - Renders in Magenta / Violet (Ideal for AI-generated code, prompts, or notes).
  • //- - Renders in Strikethrough with dimmed color (Ideal for marking code to remove or deprecate).

Compatibility

  • Requires Delphi 11 Alexandria or newer (including Delphi 12 Athens).
  • Not compatible with older versions of RAD Studio.

Installation

  1. Clone or download this repository.
  2. Open the package file (.dpk or .dproj) in your Delphi IDE.
  3. Right-click the package in the Project Manager and select Build.
  4. Right-click the package again and select Install.
  5. Restarting the IDE is not required; the effect is applied immediately to open editor tabs.

Usage Example

Simply type the designated prefixes at the start of your comments inside the code editor:

pascal
// Standard Delphi comment (IDE default color)
//* Critical logic block - Do not modify (Red)
//! Deprecated method used here (Orange)
//? Needs refactoring in the next release (Blue)
//> Key performance tip: keep allocations minimal (Yellow / Gold)
//ai Generated by AI assistant - verify edge cases (Magenta / Violet)
//- Needs to be removed later (Strikethrough)

Roadmap (Future Plans)

  • [ ] Settings Dialog: Add an options window within the IDE Tools menu for easy configuration.
  • [ ] Custom Tokens & Colors: Allow users to add new custom prefix symbols and assign custom colors to them, extending beyond the default options.