How to speed up the initial use of `helm-M-x`?

Question

When I run helm-M-x (SPC :) in Spacemacs, the first time is slow in loading/showing. Is there a way to "preload" it during startup/.spacemacs?

Answer 1

This requires an understanding of autoload, require, provide, and "named features". A brief introduction to those concepts is at: Spacemacs Layers.

1. Find out which "named feature" helm-M-x is in. One way: look at the source code of the file and try to find (provide 'xxxx). In this case, it is 'helm-command (source: helm-command.el)

2. Use (require 'helm-command) in your init/startup configuration after all other layers/packages have been loaded (eg dotspacemacs/user-config).