Software & Preparation
Before you can start creating add-ons, you first have to install the required tools and applications. While development will be easiest on Windows 10, we have provided mobile alternatives where applicable.
Download Minecraft Education Edition
You'll need a copy of Minecraft Education Edition installed.
Picking an Editor
Add-ons can be created using any text editor, however it's much more comfortable to work in a dedicated editor. A good editor can give you code-completion, error-detection, and in-editor documentation. Generally, you cannot go wrong selecting either VSCode or bridge.
VSCode
A general purpose text-editor and IDE. With VSCode, you will be able to edit your add-ons in plain-text, guided along by a powerful array of extensions. Great for programmers and advanced users.
Configure VSCode (Extensions & Tools)
Many packages exist for VSCode that make editing add-ons easier:
bridge.
A light-weight, dedicated IDE for Minecraft add-ons. Features innovative tools like entity/block previews, rich auto-completions, file validations, and presets. Includes a text editor and a tree editor for beginners.
Configure bridge. (Guides & Links)
Mobile Editors
Android
Blockbench
Blockbench
A 'boxy 3D model editor' typically used to create Minecraft models, textures and animations. Also provides a web-browser version compatible with mobile.
Image Editors
Keep in mind that the traditional Minecraft style is simple 16x16 pixel art. Many powerful free programs are available, but choose one that feels comfortable and easy for you.
Krita
Powerful open-source digital art tool. Works on Mac/PC.
Pros: Plenty of features, pixel brush, intuitive UI.
Cons: Requires some time to learn tools.
GIMP
Free open-source image manipulation program (like Photoshop). Works on Mac/PC.
Pros: More than enough tools for Minecraft art.
Cons: Steep learning curve, unintuitive interface for some.
Paint.NET
Simple yet powerful image editor. Windows only.
Pros: Easy to use and learn.
Cons: Only works on Windows.
Pixilart
Web-based pixel art software. Simple, focused on pixel art, powerful resize option.
Pros: Easy to learn, curated for pixel art.
Cons: Requires internet, may lack advanced tools.
Piskel
Web-based pixel art software focused on sprites and animations (flipbooks).
Pros: Easy to learn, perfect for flipbook animations.
Cons: Requires internet, basic tools only.
Libresprite
Free open-source program for creating/animating sprites (based on Aseprite).
Pros: Basic & easy, customizable, curated for pixel artists.
Cons: May not work on Mac, small community maintenance.
Additional Materials
Join the Discord
The best place to get help with this guide and connect with the community is to join the Discord server(s).
Vanilla Packs
Minecraft's vanilla files are a good source of reference material. Download these packs and keep them handy for examples of items, entities, animations, etc.
Documentation
Familiarize yourself with these good sources of Add-on documentation and consider bookmarking them.
Troubleshooting and Additional Help
What You Have Learned
Identified and installed the necessary software (Minecraft, Editors, etc.).
Downloaded the Vanilla Example files for reference.
Learned where to find documentation and community help.
Next Steps
With your tools ready, it's time to create your first Add-On structure.
Next: Project Setup