---
parent: Set up a local workspace
grand_parent: Getting into the code
nav_order: 11
---
# Step 1: Get the code into IntelliJ
Start IntelliJ.
IntelliJ shows the following window:
{% figure caption:"IntelliJ Start Window" %}
{% endfigure %}
Click on "Open"
Choose `build.gradle` in the root of the jabref source folder:
{% figure caption:"Choose `build.gradle` in the “Open Project or File” dialog" %}
{% endfigure %}
After pressing "OK", IntelliJ asks how that file should be opened.
Answer: "Open as Project"
{% figure caption:"Choose “Open as Project” in the Open Project dialog" %}
{% endfigure %}
Then, trust the project:
{% figure caption:"Choose “Trust Project” in the “Trust and Open Project” dialog" %}
{% endfigure %}
## Ensure that committing via IntelliJ works
IntelliJ offers committing using the UI.
Press Alt+0 to open the commit dialog.
Unfortunately, IntelliJ has no support for ignored sub modules [[IDEA-285237](https://youtrack.jetbrains.com/issue/IDEA-285237/ignored-changes-in-submodules-are-still-visible-in-the-commit-window)].
Fortunately, there is a workaround:
Go to **File > Settings... > Version Control > Directory Mappings**.
**Note:** In some MacBooks, `Settings` can be found at the "IntelliJ" button of the app menu instead of at "File".
Currently, it looks as follows:
{% figure caption:"Directory Mappings unmodified" %}
{% endfigure %}
You need to tell IntelliJ to ignore the submodules `buildres\abbrv.jabref.org`, `src\main\resources\csl-locales`, and `src\main\resources\csl-styles`.
Select all three (holding the Ctrl key).
Then press the red minus button on top.
This will make these directories "Unregistered roots:", which is fine.
{% figure caption:"Directory Mappings having three unregistered roots" %}
{% endfigure %}