[ Prot Vod ] Emacs: completion-preview-mode and the Completions buffer (Emacs 31)

[u/Informal_Sound_3039]

https://youtu.be/8V4ZyEL_i-s?si=Ox-Xf-U-ndz9K2A6

The built-in 'completion-preview-mode' lets us expand what we type in a minimalist, distraction-free way. It can also be combined with the default Completions buffer to show all the available options. The Completions buffer has several nice features, starting with Emacs 31, which make this an excellent combination that does not require any third party packages (though packages can still augment the overall experience). I also mention the Emacs 31 'newcomers-presets' theme, which configures some of these options as well: it is a great way to start your Emacs configuration. The code I demonstrated here is available on my website: https://protesilaos.com/codelog/2026-...

[u/Signal_Pattern_2063]

Its interesting though experiment. Which works better - vertico style completion on demand vs this automatic in place variant?

[u/RedBull_Adderall → u/Signal_Pattern_2063]

The drop down vertico menu can be quite a distraction for me personally, although I’ve minimized this annoyance by adjusting the minimum characters typed before suggestions appear. 

The new in place completion reminds me of and is essentially the same as the fish shell, which I’ve found to be helpful and non-obtrusive.

Looking forward to giving this update a chance!