# Getting Started
First, you need `.slint` files, which contain a textual description of your user interface, written in the Slint language.
Next, you embed the `.slint` files in a project written in a supported programming language, like C++, Rust, or JavaScript.
There are three different pathways to get started with Slint:
1. [SlintPad](https://slint.dev/editor) - Use this to get a feel of the Slint language.
This is a web browser-based tool where you can try Slint out.
2. As a UI Designer, working with Slint files locally, we recommend the following combination of software tools:
- [Visual Studio Code](https://code.visualstudio.com)
- [The Slint for Visual Studio Code Extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=Slint.slint)
3. As a Software Developer, integrating Slint into a new or existing code base, choose one of these languages to
get started:
- [C++](slint-cpp:index.html)
- [Rust](slint-rust:index.html)
- [JavaScript](slint-node:index.html)