> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://burkeholland.gitbook.io/vs-code-can-do-that/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://burkeholland.gitbook.io/vs-code-can-do-that/exercise-7-working-with-data/before-you-start.md). # Working with data Apps have data. At least most of them do. Even if you're strictly a frontend developer, the time is going to come sooner or later when you have to work with a database of some sort. Traditionally, databases are a black box that you interface with via a network protocol or command line tool. In some instances, there are third party GUI's that you can install. With VS Code, you can bring most database providers right into your editor. In this section, you'll learn how to connect to various data providers, visually interact with your data stores and run queries right from the same place you run your code. Open the "exercise-7-working-with-data/start" folder. This section does not have a "solution" folder. All work will be done in the start folder. ``` cd exercise-7-working-with-data/start code . ``` This project uses Remote Containers to deliver Mongo DB and MySQL as databases without you having to install anything. It's like magic. After VS Code opens... * Open the Command Palette (**Cmd/Ctrl + Shift + P**) * Select "Remote-Containers: Reopen Folder in Container" ![](/files/-Lm6wPvUoRtkq5hghCaz) * This may take just a moment as VS Code has to pull down images and build the containers the project runs in --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://burkeholland.gitbook.io/vs-code-can-do-that/exercise-7-working-with-data/before-you-start.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.