PyCharm Error: getVirtualFile(...) must not be null
Today, I encountered a serious error in PyCharm that prevented me from using the IDE properly. The error message was "PyCharm Error running getVirtualFile(...) must not be null"
.
I spent some time troubleshooting the issue, and at first, I suspected that it was a problem with PyCharm itself.
However, after further investigation, I discovered that the culprit was actually a third-party plugin I had installed called AWS CodeWhisperer
. This plugin is designed to provide code completion suggestions for AWS development.
Who Caused the getVirtualFile(…) Error
Once I uninstalled the AWS CodeWhisperer plugin, the error in PyCharm disappeared, and I was able to use the IDE without any problems.
As a result, I decided to switch back to using GitHub Copilot, another code completion plugin that I had used previously. GitHub Copilot has been working well for me, and I haven’t experienced any issues with it so far.
How to Avoid PyCharm Plugin Errors
This experience highlights the importance of carefully evaluating third-party plugins before installing them in your IDE. While plugins can be helpful in extending the functionality of your IDE, they can also introduce bugs and compatibility issues. It’s always a good idea to do some research on a plugin before installing it, and to be prepared to uninstall it if it causes problems.
Here are some additional tips for avoiding plugin-related issues in PyCharm:
- Only install plugins from trusted sources. Make sure that the plugin you’re installing is from a reputable developer and has a good track record.
- Check the plugin’s compatibility with your version of PyCharm. Not all plugins are compatible with all versions of PyCharm. Make sure that the plugin you’re installing is compatible with the version of PyCharm that you’re using.
- Read the plugin’s reviews before installing it. See what other users have to say about the plugin. This can help you to identify potential problems before you install the plugin.
- Start with a small number of plugins. Don’t install too many plugins at once. This can make it difficult to troubleshoot problems if they occur.
- Keep your plugins up to date. Outdated plugins can be more likely to cause problems. Make sure that you’re using the latest versions of your plugins.
By following these tips, you can help avoid plugin-related issues in PyCharm and keep your IDE running smoothly.