In STM32CubeIDE, why isn't my file syntax highlighted when opened from Project Explorer?

[PaulK101]

So if I open a .cpp file by double clicking in Project Explorer, the syntax is not highlighted:

But if I have an error, clicking on the file error opens up the file like this (from Problems Tab):

Both files also open up in the tabs next to each other (as if it doesn't know the file is already open).  

Anyone know if there is a fix or how do I open a .cpp file and have it highlighted?

Thanks

[TDK]

It has to be part of a project in order for the IDE to know what words are functions vs variables vs enums vs defines. Especially with macros, C++ syntax is absurdly complicated. It needs the larger context.

For example, to know that GPIO_PIN_SET is an enum vs GPIO_PIN_6 as a define. The file alone doesn't provide that context.

[PaulK101]

I just posted a small part of the code, I can't post the entire thing due to NDA, but it is part of a TouchGFX project that was created by TouchGFX Designer.  Should it not already have all that info when the project was created?  

It seems to know when the project loads up, but not when I open a file from Project Explorer.

[TDK]

If you open a file, it only has the context of that file. If you open a project that contains that file, then open the file within the project, it will have the full context, as you saw.

Oh, I misunderstood Project Explorer vs Windows Explorer.

Yeah, it should have the context. Probably something specific to your workspace and how you're opening it.

[PaulK101]

I see that makes sense.  Thank you

[Osman SOYKURT]

Hello @PaulK101 ,

If you open your project with the IDE that you have generated code for (CubeIDE, Keil or IAR), then all the references should be there and working. However if you use a source code editor, you have to open your project from the project root.