AoC start file generator

Download the latest version here!

What this file does:

1. Takes a user input for your Advent of Code session cookie value
2. Generates a year directory next to the .exe save location
3. Generates subdirectories for days 1-25
4. Creates a populated start file within each relevant subdirectory

Set up:

To download the current release, simply click the link above.

Note: Browsers like Chrome may block the download. You can override these settings in most cases, as shown below. Of course, it is recommended to only do this if you trust the source & should be re-enabled after downloading.

After downloading, extract the .zip file.

Move the extracted .exe file to wherever you want to generate your start files. Likely a dedicated 'Advent of Code' directory to keep things organised! Once moved, simply run the application and wait for it to load. Be patient, this may take a few seconds.

You may also need to grant an exception on the file depending on your local antivirus/firewall settings, as the application is unsigned.

How do I get my session cookie?:

To get your session cookie, head to the Advent of Code website and sign in. Once signed in, you can right-click and inspect the page, or navigate to developer tools. Here, look in the 'Application' tab, click on 'session' and you'll be able to copy your session cookie value.

Important: Do not share this with others - this grants access to act as your account associated with the website!

Output:

If the application runs successfully, you'll receive everything listed above, which should look like:

Year directory:

Day N directories:

Start files:

Within Alteryx:

How does it work?:

There is a template.yxmd file within the bundle which is treated as such:

• Dummy session_cookie is replaced - taken from user input
• URL value year is replaced - parsed from today()
• URL value day is replaced - from range 1-25

Note: Given year is generated from today(), this app ought to be dynamic for future events!

If you need to report an issue or would like to request a new feature, click here!

Connect:

LinkedIn | GitHub | X/Twitter | Alteryx community

Releases:

Version	Date	Release notes
v1.0.0	24/11/2024	Initial release

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