.. _sample_intro_copy:

Creating a copy of a sample
###########################

This procedure is the recommended approach when working with the samples and allows you to add changes without modifying the SDK itself.

Follow these steps to create a new application based on a sample:

1. Open the |nRFVSC| by clicking its icon.
#. From the :guilabel:`Welcome View`, click :guilabel:`Create a new application`.

   A quick pick menu appears.

#. Select :guilabel:`Copy a sample` - this will create a `freestanding application`_ from a sample in |BMlong|.

   If you have more than one SDK version installed, a quick pick menu appears showing a list of SDK versions to copy the sample from.

#. If asked to select the SDK version, select the one that you want to copy the sample from.

   A quick pick menu appears showing a list of available samples to choose from.
   This list is autogenerated based on the chosen SDK with the :guilabel:`nrf-bm` samples placed on the top of the list.
   All samples below the :guilabel:`nrf-bm` specific list are not compatible and should be ignored.

   .. figure:: /images/create_new_application_from_sample_quick_pick_menu.png
      :alt: Create New Application from Sample - Quick Pick Menu

      Create New Application from Sample - Quick Pick Menu

#. Click on the name of the sample you want to work with.

   A prompt appears asking to enter the location for the application.
   You can also use the folder button at the top of the quick pick to open a folder picker.

   The application creation process starts after you enter the name.
   When the application is created, a prompt appears.
   Click :guilabel:`Open` or :guilabel:`Open in New Window` to open the new application.