Global "using" directives in VS2010/C#?

Question

I'm pretty sure I know the answer but I'm wondering if there's a way to define a global "using" directive in my C# projects so that I don't have to repeat the directive on top of every code file.

My interest is really rooted with the introduction of extension methods in the .NET Framework. The only way to use an extension method is to define a using directive for the namespace containing the extension methods. Without the using directive, I lose Intellisense capabilities for the extension methods which means I won't always see what methods are available.

As a framework developer, making sure that the types and methods that are provided in the framework are clear and available to consuming developers is key to me. While documentation and training serve their purpose, I've found that most devs will hit the period and scroll through the Intellisense list to see what methods and properties are available. Even if they go to the Object Browser or view the reference documentation, they won't know about an extension method unless they know about it. This is where Intellisense comes in.

And, while I can add the using directive to the template VS uses, the "Remove and Sort" option in VS will remove the directive referencing the extension methods if one isn't being used.

So, all that being said, is there any way to define a global "using" directive in VS 2010? If not, any chance it's being considered by MS for the future?

Answer 1

You can place your extension methods in the global namespace, by making sure the containing classes are not declared within a namespace. This will make them globally available.

As for default namespaces - apart from changing the VS templates, this is not possible.

Of course, it is always possible the MS will consider it. Unlikely, but possible.

Instead of looking for a technical solution, perhaps you should look at educating your fellow developers and provide a convention regarding extension methods (for instance, a known location/namespace schema)?

Answer 2

The global using directive is a new language feature in C# 10. When running on .NET 6 there are also implicit global using directives available in certain namespaces.