From 29713376e9cf038a5e305e8f74eda26b3b383913 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:25:52 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 01/37] docs: add Copilot Coding Agent documentation and update table of contents --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 18 ++ docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 308 +++++++++++++++++++++++++++ docs/toc.json | 1 + 3 files changed, 327 insertions(+) create mode 100644 docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index 727b6edb24..5023eb074e 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -25,6 +25,20 @@ Agent mode is optimized for making autonomous edits across multiple files in you Agent mode is particularly useful for coding tasks when you have a less well-defined task that might also require running terminal commands and tools. Agent mode autonomously determines the relevant context and tasks to accomplish the request. It can also iterate multiple times to resolve intermediate issues, such as syntax errors or test failures. +## Agent mode vs Copilot Coding Agent + +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, Copilot Coding Agent works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. + +| Feature | Local Agent Mode | Copilot Coding Agent | +|---------|------------------|---------------------| +| **Where it runs** | Your VS Code editor | GitHub cloud | +| **Independence** | Requires your interaction | Fully autonomous | +| **Duration** | Active VS Code session | Hours without intervention | +| **Output** | Edits files directly | Creates pull requests | +| **Best for** | Interactive development, immediate feedback | Well-defined tasks, background work | + +Learn more about [Copilot Coding Agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). + ## Enable agent mode in VS Code > [!NOTE] @@ -297,6 +311,10 @@ Consider the following criteria to choose between edit mode and agent mode: * **Self-healing**: agent mode evaluates the outcome of the generated edits and might iterate multiple times to resolve intermediate issues. * **Request quota**: in agent mode, depending on the complexity of the task, one prompt might result in many requests to the backend. +### When should I use Copilot Coding Agent instead of local agent mode? + +Use [Copilot Coding Agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) for well-defined tasks that can work independently in the background. Use local agent mode when you want to stay involved in the development process and iterate quickly on changes. + ### I'm getting an error that says "Cannot have more than 128 tools per request." A chat request can have a maximum of 128 tools enabled at a time. If you have more than 128 tools selected, reduce the number of tools by deselecting some tools in the tools picker in the Chat view. diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..a8a2fe79a4 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -0,0 +1,308 @@ +--- +ContentId: f8b9e2a4-7c1d-4f5e-9a8b-3d2e1f0c6789 +DateApproved: 07/18/2025 +MetaDescription: Learn how to use the GitHub Copilot Coding Agent to autonomously implement features and fix bugs by assigning GitHub issues to Copilot in VS Code. +MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png +--- +# GitHub Copilot Coding Agent + +GitHub Copilot Coding Agent is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. + +> [!NOTE] +> Copilot Coding Agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). + +## What is the Copilot Coding Agent? + +The Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that: + +* Works independently in an isolated GitHub Actions-powered development environment +* Can be assigned GitHub issues or delegated tasks from VS Code chat +* Creates branches and pull requests automatically +* Implements features across multiple files in your repository +* Runs tests, linters, and other automated checks +* Operates completely independently of your local development environment + +This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. + +## Copilot Coding Agent vs local agent mode + +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While Copilot Coding Agent works independently on GitHub, local agent mode runs within your editor for interactive development. + +| Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | +|---------|---------------------|------------------| +| **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | +| **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Requires your interaction | +| **Duration** | Hours without intervention | Active VS Code session | +| **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | +| **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | + +Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). + +## What Copilot Coding Agent can do + +Copilot Coding Agent can handle a variety of development tasks: + +* **Fix bugs** - Diagnose and resolve issues in your codebase +* **Implement incremental new features** - Add functionality that builds on existing code +* **Improve test coverage** - Write additional tests for your code +* **Update documentation** - Keep docs in sync with code changes +* **Address technical debt** - Refactor and improve code quality +* **Implement UI changes** - Create user interface components and styling + +## How it works + +The Copilot Coding Agent workflow: + +1. **Assignment**: You assign a GitHub issue to `@copilot` or delegate a task from VS Code chat +1. **Analysis**: The agent analyzes the task and your repository structure +1. **Development**: Copilot works in its own isolated GitHub Actions environment where it can: + * Explore your codebase + * Make changes across multiple files + * Run builds and tests + * Execute linters and other automated checks +1. **Pull request**: The agent creates a pull request with the implementation +1. **Review**: You review the changes and can request modifications through PR comments +1. **Iteration**: The agent responds to feedback and updates the implementation + +## Prerequisites + +Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: + +* **GitHub Copilot subscription**: Available with Copilot Pro, Pro+, Business, or Enterprise plans +* **Write access**: You must have write permissions to the repository +* **Enable the agent**: Copilot Coding Agent must be enabled for your account or organization + +> [!TIP] +> If you don't have Copilot access yet, you can sign up for the [Copilot Free plan](https://github.com/features/copilot/plans) to get a monthly limit of interactions. + +## Getting started in VS Code + +### Enable VS Code integration + +To use Copilot Coding Agent from VS Code, you'll need the GitHub Pull Requests extension with a preview setting enabled: + +1. Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) + +1. Add this setting to your VS Code configuration: + + ```json + "githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration": true + ``` + +### Method 1: Assign issues to Copilot + +1. Open the **GitHub Pull Requests** view in VS Code + +1. Navigate to the **Issues** section + +1. Find the issue you want to assign to Copilot + +1. Right-click the issue and select **Assign to Copilot** or click the assign button and select `@copilot` + +1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background + +### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat + +1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) + +1. Have a conversation about the feature or change you want to implement + +1. When ready, use a prompt like: + ``` + Please implement this feature using the Copilot Coding Agent + ``` + +1. The agent will create a pull request and begin implementing the discussed changes + +## Tracking agent progress + +### Monitor work in VS Code + +The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** section that shows: + +* All active Copilot Coding Agent sessions +* Pull requests created by the agent +* Progress status for each task + +### View detailed session logs + +1. In the Pull Requests view, find your agent's work under **Copilot on My Behalf** + +1. Select **View Session** to see a detailed log of everything the agent did: + * Commands executed + * Files modified + * Tests run + * Decision-making process + +### Cancel a running session + +If you need to stop the agent: + +1. Go to your GitHub repository on GitHub.com +1. Navigate to the **Actions** tab +1. Find the running Copilot Coding Agent workflow +1. Select **Cancel workflow** + +## Reviewing and iterating + +### When the agent completes work + +The Copilot Coding Agent will: + +* Create a pull request with all changes +* Assign the PR to you for review +* Request you as a reviewer +* Include a detailed description explaining the implementation +* Add screenshots when applicable (for UI changes) + +### Providing feedback + +You can guide the agent's work through pull request comments: + +1. **Request changes**: Leave specific feedback about what needs to be modified + + ``` + Please update the login form to include password strength validation + ``` + +1. **Ask questions**: Get clarification about implementation decisions + + ``` + Why did you choose this authentication library over others? + ``` + +1. **Request improvements**: Ask for additional features or refinements + + ``` + Can you add error handling for network timeouts? + ``` + +The agent will respond to your feedback, make the requested changes, and update the pull request. + +## Example tasks + +Here are some examples of tasks you can assign to Copilot Coding Agent: + +``` +Add a shopping cart feature with add, remove, and checkout functionality +``` + +``` +Fix the memory leak in the image processing pipeline and add proper error handling +``` + +``` +Refactor the authentication system to use dependency injection and add unit tests +``` + +``` +Add integration with payment processing including webhooks and error handling +``` + +``` +Implement user authentication using JWT tokens with refresh token rotation and bcrypt for password hashing +``` + +## Security and permissions + +### Built-in security protections + +Copilot Coding Agent includes several security measures: + +* **Repository access**: Only works in repositories where you have write permissions +* **Branch restrictions**: Can only create and push to branches beginning with `copilot/` +* **Sandbox environment**: Runs in an isolated development environment with controlled internet access +* **Review requirements**: Cannot approve or merge its own pull requests +* **User validation**: Only responds to feedback from users with write permissions + +### Branch protection compatibility + +* Works with most branch protection rules +* Pull requests require approval from a user with write permissions +* The person who assigned the task cannot approve the resulting pull request +* Draft PRs require approval before Actions workflows can run + +> [!IMPORTANT] +> If you have "Require signed commits" enabled, you'll need to rewrite the commit history before merging, as Copilot does not sign its commits. + +## Limitations + +### What Copilot Coding Agent cannot do + +* **Cross-repository changes**: Can only work within the repository where the issue is assigned +* **Multiple PRs per task**: Opens exactly one pull request per assigned task +* **Existing PR modifications**: Cannot work on pull requests it didn't create + +For detailed information about limitations, compatibility, and usage costs, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent). + +## Best practices + +### Writing effective prompts + +Be specific about requirements and include technical preferences: + +``` +Add user management with admin and regular user roles, including profile editing and password reset functionality using JWT tokens with bcrypt password hashing +``` + +Provide context about existing code and specify testing requirements: + +``` +Add payment processing to the existing e-commerce app, integrating with the current Order model and including comprehensive unit tests +``` + +### Effective collaboration + +* **Review promptly**: The agent can iterate quickly on feedback +* **Be specific with change requests**: Clear, detailed feedback leads to better results +* **Start small**: Try simpler tasks first to understand how the agent works with your codebase +* **Start small**: Try simpler tasks first to understand how the agent works with your codebase + +## Extending with MCP servers + +For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to give it access to: + +* External databases +* Cloud services +* APIs and third-party integrations +* Custom development tools + +Learn more about [extending Copilot Coding Agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). + +## Settings + +Configure Copilot Coding Agent integration in VS Code: + +* `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)`: Enable VS Code integration with Copilot Coding Agent + +## Getting help + +### Hands-on practice + +Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/expand-your-team-with-copilot/) Skills exercise for practical experience. + +### Troubleshooting + +**Agent not starting:** +* Verify Copilot access on your GitHub account +* Ensure you have write permissions to the repository +* Check that Copilot Coding Agent is enabled for your organization + +**Incomplete implementations:** +* Review the session logs for any errors encountered +* Check if tests failed during the agent's work +* Provide more detailed requirements in your issue description + +## Next steps + +* Enable Copilot Coding Agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) +* Try the [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) for immediate, interactive coding assistance +* Learn about [Copilot Chat](/docs/copilot/chat/copilot-chat.md) for conversational AI help +* Explore [Smart Actions](/docs/copilot/copilot-smart-actions.md) for quick code improvements + +## Related resources + +* [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent) +* [Responsible use of Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/responsible-use-of-github-copilot-features/responsible-use-of-copilot-coding-agent-on-githubcom) +* [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) +* [Local agent mode comparison](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) diff --git a/docs/toc.json b/docs/toc.json index 5e918dd78d..4f5125dccf 100644 --- a/docs/toc.json +++ b/docs/toc.json @@ -119,6 +119,7 @@ } ], ["Code Completions", "/docs/copilot/ai-powered-suggestions"], + ["Copilot Coding Agent", "/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent"], ["Smart Actions", "/docs/copilot/copilot-smart-actions"], ["Customize Copilot", "/docs/copilot/copilot-customization"], ["Language Models", "/docs/copilot/language-models"], From a12fed68b6c0f63bfcbd77fc6209a66e66406510 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 18 Jul 2025 15:33:45 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 02/37] refactor: reorganize Copilot Coding Agent documentation for clarity and update VS Code integration details --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 109 ++++++++------------------- 1 file changed, 31 insertions(+), 78 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index a8a2fe79a4..ecf27e1701 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -24,20 +24,6 @@ The Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that: This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. -## Copilot Coding Agent vs local agent mode - -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While Copilot Coding Agent works independently on GitHub, local agent mode runs within your editor for interactive development. - -| Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | -|---------|---------------------|------------------| -| **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | -| **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Requires your interaction | -| **Duration** | Hours without intervention | Active VS Code session | -| **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | -| **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | - -Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). - ## What Copilot Coding Agent can do Copilot Coding Agent can handle a variety of development tasks: @@ -71,23 +57,26 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: * **GitHub Copilot subscription**: Available with Copilot Pro, Pro+, Business, or Enterprise plans * **Write access**: You must have write permissions to the repository * **Enable the agent**: Copilot Coding Agent must be enabled for your account or organization +* **VS Code setup**: Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) and enable the preview setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` > [!TIP] > If you don't have Copilot access yet, you can sign up for the [Copilot Free plan](https://github.com/features/copilot/plans) to get a monthly limit of interactions. -## Getting started in VS Code - -### Enable VS Code integration +## Copilot Coding Agent vs local agent mode -To use Copilot Coding Agent from VS Code, you'll need the GitHub Pull Requests extension with a preview setting enabled: +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While Copilot Coding Agent works independently on GitHub, local agent mode runs within your editor for interactive development. -1. Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) +| Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | +|---------|---------------------|------------------| +| **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | +| **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Requires your interaction | +| **Duration** | Hours without intervention | Active VS Code session | +| **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | +| **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | -1. Add this setting to your VS Code configuration: +Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). - ```json - "githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration": true - ``` +## Getting started in VS Code ### Method 1: Assign issues to Copilot @@ -101,6 +90,8 @@ To use Copilot Coding Agent from VS Code, you'll need the GitHub Pull Requests e 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background +![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) + ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat 1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) @@ -124,6 +115,8 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** * Pull requests created by the agent * Progress status for each task +![Screenshot showing a work-in-progress PR under the "Copilot on my behalf" section with the "View Session" button highlighted.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/copilot-wip.png) + ### View detailed session logs 1. In the Pull Requests view, find your agent's work under **Copilot on My Behalf** @@ -155,6 +148,8 @@ The Copilot Coding Agent will: * Include a detailed description explaining the implementation * Add screenshots when applicable (for UI changes) +![Screenshot showing a pull request from Copilot Coding Agent displayed in VS Code with an included screenshot of the implemented feature.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/draft-with-screenshot.png) + ### Providing feedback You can guide the agent's work through pull request comments: @@ -179,9 +174,11 @@ You can guide the agent's work through pull request comments: The agent will respond to your feedback, make the requested changes, and update the pull request. -## Example tasks +## Example tasks and best practices + +### Effective task examples -Here are some examples of tasks you can assign to Copilot Coding Agent: +Here are examples of well-written tasks that work well with Copilot Coding Agent: ``` Add a shopping cart feature with add, remove, and checkout functionality @@ -192,38 +189,23 @@ Fix the memory leak in the image processing pipeline and add proper error handli ``` ``` -Refactor the authentication system to use dependency injection and add unit tests -``` - -``` -Add integration with payment processing including webhooks and error handling +Add user management with admin and regular user roles, including profile editing and password reset functionality using JWT tokens with bcrypt password hashing ``` ``` -Implement user authentication using JWT tokens with refresh token rotation and bcrypt for password hashing +Add payment processing to the existing e-commerce app, integrating with the current Order model and including comprehensive unit tests ``` -## Security and permissions - -### Built-in security protections - -Copilot Coding Agent includes several security measures: +### Tips for success -* **Repository access**: Only works in repositories where you have write permissions -* **Branch restrictions**: Can only create and push to branches beginning with `copilot/` -* **Sandbox environment**: Runs in an isolated development environment with controlled internet access -* **Review requirements**: Cannot approve or merge its own pull requests -* **User validation**: Only responds to feedback from users with write permissions - -### Branch protection compatibility +* **Be specific**: Include technical preferences, testing requirements, and integration details +* **Provide context**: Reference existing code patterns and architectural decisions +* **Review promptly**: The agent can iterate quickly on feedback +* **Start small**: Try simpler tasks first to understand how the agent works with your codebase -* Works with most branch protection rules -* Pull requests require approval from a user with write permissions -* The person who assigned the task cannot approve the resulting pull request -* Draft PRs require approval before Actions workflows can run +## Security and permissions -> [!IMPORTANT] -> If you have "Require signed commits" enabled, you'll need to rewrite the commit history before merging, as Copilot does not sign its commits. +Copilot Coding Agent includes built-in security protections and operates within GitHub's security framework. For detailed information about security measures, permissions, and branch protection compatibility, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent security documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent#built-in-security-protections). ## Limitations @@ -235,29 +217,6 @@ Copilot Coding Agent includes several security measures: For detailed information about limitations, compatibility, and usage costs, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent). -## Best practices - -### Writing effective prompts - -Be specific about requirements and include technical preferences: - -``` -Add user management with admin and regular user roles, including profile editing and password reset functionality using JWT tokens with bcrypt password hashing -``` - -Provide context about existing code and specify testing requirements: - -``` -Add payment processing to the existing e-commerce app, integrating with the current Order model and including comprehensive unit tests -``` - -### Effective collaboration - -* **Review promptly**: The agent can iterate quickly on feedback -* **Be specific with change requests**: Clear, detailed feedback leads to better results -* **Start small**: Try simpler tasks first to understand how the agent works with your codebase -* **Start small**: Try simpler tasks first to understand how the agent works with your codebase - ## Extending with MCP servers For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to give it access to: @@ -269,12 +228,6 @@ For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context P Learn more about [extending Copilot Coding Agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). -## Settings - -Configure Copilot Coding Agent integration in VS Code: - -* `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)`: Enable VS Code integration with Copilot Coding Agent - ## Getting help ### Hands-on practice From 13a3e91654b0a5ece81f66e69f6267fc2840cfe9 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:16:41 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 03/37] fix: add hyperlink to GitHub Copilot Coding Agent description --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index ecf27e1701..733bfd4deb 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- # GitHub Copilot Coding Agent -GitHub Copilot Coding Agent is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. +[GitHub Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. > [!NOTE] > Copilot Coding Agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). From 3cc426f2b21d0fe18e10b531c9612666ea325d8b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:18:35 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 04/37] refactor: streamline Copilot Coding Agent description for clarity and conciseness --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 31 +++++++++++----------------- 1 file changed, 12 insertions(+), 19 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 733bfd4deb..425086bb94 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -11,29 +11,22 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png > [!NOTE] > Copilot Coding Agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). -## What is the Copilot Coding Agent? - -The Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that: - -* Works independently in an isolated GitHub Actions-powered development environment -* Can be assigned GitHub issues or delegated tasks from VS Code chat -* Creates branches and pull requests automatically -* Implements features across multiple files in your repository -* Runs tests, linters, and other automated checks -* Operates completely independently of your local development environment - -This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. ## What Copilot Coding Agent can do -Copilot Coding Agent can handle a variety of development tasks: +Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks. It can be assigned GitHub issues or delegated tasks from VS Code chat, and will: + +* Fix bugs and resolve issues in your codebase +* Implement new features across multiple files +* Improve test coverage +* Update documentation +* Refactor and address technical debt +* Create user interface components and styling +* Create branches and pull requests automatically +* Run tests, linters, and other automated checks +* Operate independently of your local development environment -* **Fix bugs** - Diagnose and resolve issues in your codebase -* **Implement incremental new features** - Add functionality that builds on existing code -* **Improve test coverage** - Write additional tests for your code -* **Update documentation** - Keep docs in sync with code changes -* **Address technical debt** - Refactor and improve code quality -* **Implement UI changes** - Create user interface components and styling +This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. ## How it works From c475a9f9496592d7dafdc42756567431f3cc6135 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:24:21 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 05/37] refactor: enhance clarity and detail in Copilot Coding Agent capabilities section --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 63 ++++++++++++++-------------- 1 file changed, 32 insertions(+), 31 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 425086bb94..587e579430 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -14,17 +14,17 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png ## What Copilot Coding Agent can do -Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks. It can be assigned GitHub issues or delegated tasks from VS Code chat, and will: - -* Fix bugs and resolve issues in your codebase -* Implement new features across multiple files -* Improve test coverage -* Update documentation -* Refactor and address technical debt -* Create user interface components and styling -* Create branches and pull requests automatically -* Run tests, linters, and other automated checks -* Operate independently of your local development environment +Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks, such as: + +* **Fix bugs and resolve issues** in your codebase +* **Implement new features** across multiple files +* **Improve test coverage** with comprehensive unit and integration tests +* **Update documentation** to reflect code changes +* **Refactor and address technical debt** for better code quality +* **Create user interface components** and styling +* **Create branches and pull requests** automatically +* **Run tests, linters, and other automated checks** to ensure code quality +* **Operate independently** of your local development environment This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. @@ -55,20 +55,6 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: > [!TIP] > If you don't have Copilot access yet, you can sign up for the [Copilot Free plan](https://github.com/features/copilot/plans) to get a monthly limit of interactions. -## Copilot Coding Agent vs local agent mode - -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While Copilot Coding Agent works independently on GitHub, local agent mode runs within your editor for interactive development. - -| Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | -|---------|---------------------|------------------| -| **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | -| **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Requires your interaction | -| **Duration** | Hours without intervention | Active VS Code session | -| **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | -| **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | - -Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). - ## Getting started in VS Code ### Method 1: Assign issues to Copilot @@ -221,24 +207,39 @@ For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context P Learn more about [extending Copilot Coding Agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). -## Getting help +## Frequently asked questions -### Hands-on practice +### What's the difference between Copilot Coding Agent and local agent mode? -Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/expand-your-team-with-copilot/) Skills exercise for practical experience. +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences: + +| Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | +|---------|---------------------|------------------| +| **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | +| **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Involves user interaction and iteration | +| **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | +| **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | + +Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). -### Troubleshooting +### Why isn't the agent starting? -**Agent not starting:** * Verify Copilot access on your GitHub account * Ensure you have write permissions to the repository * Check that Copilot Coding Agent is enabled for your organization -**Incomplete implementations:** +### Why are implementations incomplete? + * Review the session logs for any errors encountered * Check if tests failed during the agent's work * Provide more detailed requirements in your issue description +## Getting help + +### Hands-on practice + +Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/expand-your-team-with-copilot/) Skills exercise for practical experience. + ## Next steps * Enable Copilot Coding Agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) From b69f8013144fe2e62edde32a7f6381c4fe71a429 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:26:16 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 06/37] GIF in Copilot Coding Agent documentation --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 587e579430..a27de23f47 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -8,6 +8,8 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. +![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) + > [!NOTE] > Copilot Coding Agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). @@ -69,8 +71,6 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background -![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) - ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat 1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) From cca73daa359cb2ffc70cfe6b28963210d3765e4b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:44:51 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 07/37] refactor: update VS Code setup instructions and enhance task delegation options for Copilot Coding Agent --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 22 ++++++++++++++++------ 1 file changed, 16 insertions(+), 6 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index a27de23f47..57cce8f50e 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -52,7 +52,9 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: * **GitHub Copilot subscription**: Available with Copilot Pro, Pro+, Business, or Enterprise plans * **Write access**: You must have write permissions to the repository * **Enable the agent**: Copilot Coding Agent must be enabled for your account or organization -* **VS Code setup**: Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) and enable the preview setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` +* **VS Code setup**: Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) + +**Optional**: Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in Copilot Chat for easier task delegation. > [!TIP] > If you don't have Copilot access yet, you can sign up for the [Copilot Free plan](https://github.com/features/copilot/plans) to get a monthly limit of interactions. @@ -61,9 +63,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: ### Method 1: Assign issues to Copilot -1. Open the **GitHub Pull Requests** view in VS Code - -1. Navigate to the **Issues** section +1. In the **GitHub Pull Requests** view, navigate to the **Issues** section 1. Find the issue you want to assign to Copilot @@ -71,15 +71,25 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background +![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) + ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat 1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) 1. Have a conversation about the feature or change you want to implement -1. When ready, use a prompt like: +1. When ready, delegate to the agent using one of these methods: + + **Use the delegate button (Experimental)** + + Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in the Chat view for repositories that have the agent enabled. Select this button to hand off your current chat context to the Coding Agent. + + **Use the #copilotCodingAgent tool** + + You can also reference the tool directly in your prompt: ``` - Please implement this feature using the Copilot Coding Agent + #copilotCodingAgent Please implement this login feature ``` 1. The agent will create a pull request and begin implementing the discussed changes From 73298c7928ee1b238e3cfda90545ccc8bcef6ac4 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:47:11 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 08/37] refactor: add screenshots to enhance understanding of Copilot Coding Agent features and workflow --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 14 +++++++++++++- 1 file changed, 13 insertions(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 57cce8f50e..9017717040 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -71,6 +71,8 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background +![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](../../release-notes/images/1_101/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) + ![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat @@ -87,11 +89,13 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: **Use the #copilotCodingAgent tool** - You can also reference the tool directly in your prompt: + You can also reference the tool directly in your prompt to ask Copilot to continue a local change in the background. This tool automatically pushes pending changes to a remote branch and initiates a coding agent session: ``` #copilotCodingAgent Please implement this login feature ``` +![Screenshot showing handing off a session to Copilot coding agent](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-start.png) + 1. The agent will create a pull request and begin implementing the discussed changes ## Tracking agent progress @@ -103,6 +107,9 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** * All active Copilot Coding Agent sessions * Pull requests created by the agent * Progress status for each task +* Numeric badges indicating new changes or updates + +![Screenshot showing status of multiple coding agent pull requests](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-status.png) ![Screenshot showing a work-in-progress PR under the "Copilot on my behalf" section with the "View Session" button highlighted.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/copilot-wip.png) @@ -116,6 +123,11 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** * Tests run * Decision-making process +![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-session-log.png) + +> [!TIP] +> When working with pull requests created by the Coding Agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat, allowing you to maintain context and continue working on the pull request with access to the coding agent session information. + ### Cancel a running session If you need to stop the agent: From 7c44d2d836410640884c5ed8a77f633e57aaf7c4 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:52:01 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 09/37] refactor: streamline capabilities section of Copilot Coding Agent documentation for clarity --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 24 ++++++++---------------- 1 file changed, 8 insertions(+), 16 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 9017717040..0c07a87915 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -18,15 +18,10 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks, such as: -* **Fix bugs and resolve issues** in your codebase -* **Implement new features** across multiple files -* **Improve test coverage** with comprehensive unit and integration tests -* **Update documentation** to reflect code changes -* **Refactor and address technical debt** for better code quality -* **Create user interface components** and styling -* **Create branches and pull requests** automatically -* **Run tests, linters, and other automated checks** to ensure code quality -* **Operate independently** of your local development environment +* **Fix bugs and implement features** across multiple files +* **Improve test coverage** and run automated checks +* **Refactor code and address technical debt** +* **Create pull requests** and work independently of your local environment This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. @@ -34,7 +29,7 @@ This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode The Copilot Coding Agent workflow: -1. **Assignment**: You assign a GitHub issue to `@copilot` or delegate a task from VS Code chat +1. **Assignment**: You [assign a GitHub issue to `@copilot`](#method-1-assign-issues-to-copilot) or [delegate a task from VS Code chat](#method-2-delegate-from-copilot-chat) 1. **Analysis**: The agent analyzes the task and your repository structure 1. **Development**: Copilot works in its own isolated GitHub Actions environment where it can: * Explore your codebase @@ -73,8 +68,6 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](../../release-notes/images/1_101/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) -![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) - ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat 1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) @@ -87,14 +80,13 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in the Chat view for repositories that have the agent enabled. Select this button to hand off your current chat context to the Coding Agent. + + **Use the #copilotCodingAgent tool** You can also reference the tool directly in your prompt to ask Copilot to continue a local change in the background. This tool automatically pushes pending changes to a remote branch and initiates a coding agent session: - ``` - #copilotCodingAgent Please implement this login feature - ``` -![Screenshot showing handing off a session to Copilot coding agent](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-start.png) + ![Screenshot showing handing off a session to Copilot coding agent](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-start.png) 1. The agent will create a pull request and begin implementing the discussed changes From 8fd47ba415c79065a482e40df0e8abd4c7c1502f Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 14:59:08 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 10/37] refactor: adjust screenshot formatting for consistency in Copilot Coding Agent documentation --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 5 ++--- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 3 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 0c07a87915..d5a623367c 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -66,7 +66,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background -![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](../../release-notes/images/1_101/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) + ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](../../release-notes/images/1_101/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat @@ -115,7 +115,7 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** * Tests run * Decision-making process -![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-session-log.png) + ![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-session-log.png) > [!TIP] > When working with pull requests created by the Coding Agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat, allowing you to maintain context and continue working on the pull request with access to the coding agent session information. @@ -264,6 +264,5 @@ Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/e ## Related resources * [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent) -* [Responsible use of Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/responsible-use-of-github-copilot-features/responsible-use-of-copilot-coding-agent-on-githubcom) * [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) * [Local agent mode comparison](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) From 20db65dd1a2f075de58f4e18a1f13986c875fb9b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:08:18 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 11/37] Update structure and content --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 98 ++++++++-------------------- 1 file changed, 29 insertions(+), 69 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index d5a623367c..acac277a3f 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -103,8 +103,6 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** ![Screenshot showing status of multiple coding agent pull requests](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-status.png) -![Screenshot showing a work-in-progress PR under the "Copilot on my behalf" section with the "View Session" button highlighted.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/copilot-wip.png) - ### View detailed session logs 1. In the Pull Requests view, find your agent's work under **Copilot on My Behalf** @@ -122,8 +120,9 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** ### Cancel a running session -If you need to stop the agent: +If you need to stop the agent, you can stay in VS Code and use the **Cancel Coding Agent** button on the PR overview page. +You can also cancel a session from GitHub.com: 1. Go to your GitHub repository on GitHub.com 1. Navigate to the **Actions** tab 1. Find the running Copilot Coding Agent workflow @@ -145,82 +144,22 @@ The Copilot Coding Agent will: ### Providing feedback -You can guide the agent's work through pull request comments: +You can guide the agent's work through pull request comments. Make sure to tag `@copilot` in your comments so the agent will respond: 1. **Request changes**: Leave specific feedback about what needs to be modified ``` - Please update the login form to include password strength validation - ``` - -1. **Ask questions**: Get clarification about implementation decisions - - ``` - Why did you choose this authentication library over others? + @copilot Please update the login form to include password strength validation ``` 1. **Request improvements**: Ask for additional features or refinements ``` - Can you add error handling for network timeouts? + @copilot Can you add error handling for network timeouts? ``` The agent will respond to your feedback, make the requested changes, and update the pull request. -## Example tasks and best practices - -### Effective task examples - -Here are examples of well-written tasks that work well with Copilot Coding Agent: - -``` -Add a shopping cart feature with add, remove, and checkout functionality -``` - -``` -Fix the memory leak in the image processing pipeline and add proper error handling -``` - -``` -Add user management with admin and regular user roles, including profile editing and password reset functionality using JWT tokens with bcrypt password hashing -``` - -``` -Add payment processing to the existing e-commerce app, integrating with the current Order model and including comprehensive unit tests -``` - -### Tips for success - -* **Be specific**: Include technical preferences, testing requirements, and integration details -* **Provide context**: Reference existing code patterns and architectural decisions -* **Review promptly**: The agent can iterate quickly on feedback -* **Start small**: Try simpler tasks first to understand how the agent works with your codebase - -## Security and permissions - -Copilot Coding Agent includes built-in security protections and operates within GitHub's security framework. For detailed information about security measures, permissions, and branch protection compatibility, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent security documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent#built-in-security-protections). - -## Limitations - -### What Copilot Coding Agent cannot do - -* **Cross-repository changes**: Can only work within the repository where the issue is assigned -* **Multiple PRs per task**: Opens exactly one pull request per assigned task -* **Existing PR modifications**: Cannot work on pull requests it didn't create - -For detailed information about limitations, compatibility, and usage costs, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent). - -## Extending with MCP servers - -For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to give it access to: - -* External databases -* Cloud services -* APIs and third-party integrations -* Custom development tools - -Learn more about [extending Copilot Coding Agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). - ## Frequently asked questions ### What's the difference between Copilot Coding Agent and local agent mode? @@ -248,6 +187,29 @@ Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). * Check if tests failed during the agent's work * Provide more detailed requirements in your issue description +### What security protections does Copilot Coding Agent have? + +Copilot Coding Agent includes built-in security protections and operates within GitHub's security framework. For detailed information about security measures, permissions, and branch protection compatibility, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent security documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent#built-in-security-protections). + +### Can I extend Copilot Coding Agent with external tools? + +For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to give it access to: + +* External databases +* Cloud services +* APIs and third-party integrations +* Custom development tools + +Learn more about [extending Copilot Coding Agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). + +### What are the current limitations? + +* **Cross-repository changes**: Can only work within the repository where the issue is assigned +* **Multiple PRs per task**: Opens exactly one pull request per assigned task +* **Existing PR modifications**: Cannot work on pull requests it didn't create + +For detailed information about limitations, compatibility, and usage costs, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent). + ## Getting help ### Hands-on practice @@ -257,12 +219,10 @@ Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/e ## Next steps * Enable Copilot Coding Agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) -* Try the [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) for immediate, interactive coding assistance +* Try [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code for immediate, interactive coding assistance * Learn about [Copilot Chat](/docs/copilot/chat/copilot-chat.md) for conversational AI help -* Explore [Smart Actions](/docs/copilot/copilot-smart-actions.md) for quick code improvements ## Related resources * [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent) * [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) -* [Local agent mode comparison](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) From 438779e531fc52d50427437875dc062372109f34 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:12:27 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 12/37] Comparisons --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 5 ++--- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 4 ++-- 2 files changed, 4 insertions(+), 5 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index 5023eb074e..95d6238282 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -27,17 +27,16 @@ Agent mode is particularly useful for coding tasks when you have a less well-def ## Agent mode vs Copilot Coding Agent -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, Copilot Coding Agent works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, [Copilot Coding Agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. | Feature | Local Agent Mode | Copilot Coding Agent | |---------|------------------|---------------------| | **Where it runs** | Your VS Code editor | GitHub cloud | | **Independence** | Requires your interaction | Fully autonomous | -| **Duration** | Active VS Code session | Hours without intervention | | **Output** | Edits files directly | Creates pull requests | | **Best for** | Interactive development, immediate feedback | Well-defined tasks, background work | -Learn more about [Copilot Coding Agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). +This document describes local agent mode. You can learn more about the Copilot Coding Agent in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). ## Enable agent mode in VS Code diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index acac277a3f..36cdd97843 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -164,7 +164,7 @@ The agent will respond to your feedback, make the requested changes, and update ### What's the difference between Copilot Coding Agent and local agent mode? -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences: +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, the Copilot Coding Agent works independently in the background. | Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | |---------|---------------------|------------------| @@ -173,7 +173,7 @@ VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences: | **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | | **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | -Learn more about [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). +Learn more about local agent mode in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). ### Why isn't the agent starting? From 680a69c81d03410ee4b7031049b614a97cddf547 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:15:25 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 13/37] fix: update MetaDescription for clarity in Copilot Coding Agent documentation --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 36cdd97843..b81c64ed2a 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ --- ContentId: f8b9e2a4-7c1d-4f5e-9a8b-3d2e1f0c6789 DateApproved: 07/18/2025 -MetaDescription: Learn how to use the GitHub Copilot Coding Agent to autonomously implement features and fix bugs by assigning GitHub issues to Copilot in VS Code. +MetaDescription: Learn how to use the GitHub Copilot Coding Agent to autonomously implement features and fix bugs in VS Code. MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- # GitHub Copilot Coding Agent From 835b9458fad96759e48491d605c3909c651a3805 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 21 Jul 2025 15:26:15 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 14/37] Updates --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 3 +-- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index b81c64ed2a..75afd8e4e0 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -1,6 +1,6 @@ --- ContentId: f8b9e2a4-7c1d-4f5e-9a8b-3d2e1f0c6789 -DateApproved: 07/18/2025 +DateApproved: 07/28/2025 MetaDescription: Learn how to use the GitHub Copilot Coding Agent to autonomously implement features and fix bugs in VS Code. MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- @@ -13,7 +13,6 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png > [!NOTE] > Copilot Coding Agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). - ## What Copilot Coding Agent can do Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks, such as: From 40f556322f2cb5b472417dae6ffa5430fe7b2163 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 13:56:14 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 15/37] Feedback --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 75afd8e4e0..cfd96773a3 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -1,7 +1,7 @@ --- ContentId: f8b9e2a4-7c1d-4f5e-9a8b-3d2e1f0c6789 -DateApproved: 07/28/2025 -MetaDescription: Learn how to use the GitHub Copilot Coding Agent to autonomously implement features and fix bugs in VS Code. +DateApproved: 07/09/2025 +MetaDescription: Learn how to interact with the GitHub Copilot coding agent in VS Code to autonomously implement features and fix bugs in the background. MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- # GitHub Copilot Coding Agent From 61749ca857503dab66b524c4ab75e7c7fece2404 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:04:00 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 16/37] fix: standardize capitalization of "coding agent" throughout documentation --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 54 ++++++++++++++-------------- 1 file changed, 27 insertions(+), 27 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index cfd96773a3..a555059d1f 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -4,18 +4,18 @@ DateApproved: 07/09/2025 MetaDescription: Learn how to interact with the GitHub Copilot coding agent in VS Code to autonomously implement features and fix bugs in the background. MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- -# GitHub Copilot Coding Agent +# GitHub Copilot coding agent -[GitHub Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. +[GitHub Copilot coding agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. -![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot Coding Agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) +![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) > [!NOTE] -> Copilot Coding Agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). +> Copilot coding agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). -## What Copilot Coding Agent can do +## What Copilot coding agent can do -Copilot Coding Agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks, such as: +Copilot coding agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks, such as: * **Fix bugs and implement features** across multiple files * **Improve test coverage** and run automated checks @@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode ## How it works -The Copilot Coding Agent workflow: +The Copilot coding agent workflow: 1. **Assignment**: You [assign a GitHub issue to `@copilot`](#method-1-assign-issues-to-copilot) or [delegate a task from VS Code chat](#method-2-delegate-from-copilot-chat) 1. **Analysis**: The agent analyzes the task and your repository structure @@ -41,11 +41,11 @@ The Copilot Coding Agent workflow: ## Prerequisites -Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: +Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: * **GitHub Copilot subscription**: Available with Copilot Pro, Pro+, Business, or Enterprise plans * **Write access**: You must have write permissions to the repository -* **Enable the agent**: Copilot Coding Agent must be enabled for your account or organization +* **Enable the agent**: Copilot coding agent must be enabled for your account or organization * **VS Code setup**: Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) **Optional**: Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in Copilot Chat for easier task delegation. @@ -77,9 +77,9 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: **Use the delegate button (Experimental)** - Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in the Chat view for repositories that have the agent enabled. Select this button to hand off your current chat context to the Coding Agent. + Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in the Chat view for repositories that have the agent enabled. Select this button to hand off your current chat context to the coding agent. - + **Use the #copilotCodingAgent tool** @@ -95,7 +95,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot Coding Agent, you need: The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** section that shows: -* All active Copilot Coding Agent sessions +* All active Copilot coding agent sessions * Pull requests created by the agent * Progress status for each task * Numeric badges indicating new changes or updates @@ -115,11 +115,11 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** ![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-session-log.png) > [!TIP] -> When working with pull requests created by the Coding Agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat, allowing you to maintain context and continue working on the pull request with access to the coding agent session information. +> When working with pull requests created by the coding agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat, allowing you to maintain context and continue working on the pull request with access to the coding agent session information. ### Cancel a running session -If you need to stop the agent, you can stay in VS Code and use the **Cancel Coding Agent** button on the PR overview page. +If you need to stop the agent, you can stay in VS Code and use the **Cancel coding agent** button on the PR overview page. You can also cancel a session from GitHub.com: 1. Go to your GitHub repository on GitHub.com @@ -131,7 +131,7 @@ You can also cancel a session from GitHub.com: ### When the agent completes work -The Copilot Coding Agent will: +The Copilot coding agent will: * Create a pull request with all changes * Assign the PR to you for review @@ -139,7 +139,7 @@ The Copilot Coding Agent will: * Include a detailed description explaining the implementation * Add screenshots when applicable (for UI changes) -![Screenshot showing a pull request from Copilot Coding Agent displayed in VS Code with an included screenshot of the implemented feature.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/draft-with-screenshot.png) +![Screenshot showing a pull request from Copilot coding agent displayed in VS Code with an included screenshot of the implemented feature.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/draft-with-screenshot.png) ### Providing feedback @@ -161,11 +161,11 @@ The agent will respond to your feedback, make the requested changes, and update ## Frequently asked questions -### What's the difference between Copilot Coding Agent and local agent mode? +### What's the difference between Copilot coding agent and local agent mode? -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, the Copilot Coding Agent works independently in the background. +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, the Copilot coding agent works independently in the background. -| Feature | Copilot Coding Agent | Local Agent Mode | +| Feature | Copilot coding agent | Local Agent Mode | |---------|---------------------|------------------| | **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | | **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Involves user interaction and iteration | @@ -178,7 +178,7 @@ Learn more about local agent mode in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/chat/chat * Verify Copilot access on your GitHub account * Ensure you have write permissions to the repository -* Check that Copilot Coding Agent is enabled for your organization +* Check that Copilot coding agent is enabled for your organization ### Why are implementations incomplete? @@ -186,20 +186,20 @@ Learn more about local agent mode in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/chat/chat * Check if tests failed during the agent's work * Provide more detailed requirements in your issue description -### What security protections does Copilot Coding Agent have? +### What security protections does Copilot coding agent have? -Copilot Coding Agent includes built-in security protections and operates within GitHub's security framework. For detailed information about security measures, permissions, and branch protection compatibility, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent security documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent#built-in-security-protections). +Copilot coding agent includes built-in security protections and operates within GitHub's security framework. For detailed information about security measures, permissions, and branch protection compatibility, see the [GitHub Copilot coding agent security documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent#built-in-security-protections). -### Can I extend Copilot Coding Agent with external tools? +### Can I extend Copilot coding agent with external tools? -For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot Coding Agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to give it access to: +For advanced scenarios, you can extend Copilot coding agent with Model Context Protocol (MCP) servers to give it access to: * External databases * Cloud services * APIs and third-party integrations * Custom development tools -Learn more about [extending Copilot Coding Agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). +Learn more about [extending Copilot coding agent with MCP](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/extending-copilot-coding-agent-with-mcp). ### What are the current limitations? @@ -217,11 +217,11 @@ Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/e ## Next steps -* Enable Copilot Coding Agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) +* Enable Copilot coding agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) * Try [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code for immediate, interactive coding assistance * Learn about [Copilot Chat](/docs/copilot/chat/copilot-chat.md) for conversational AI help ## Related resources -* [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent) +* [GitHub Copilot coding agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent) * [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) From 02e399d79b460c5395ac3ecc95fe595ff2222e24 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:07:17 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 17/37] fix: standardize capitalization of "coding agent" in documentation --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 12 ++++++------ 1 file changed, 6 insertions(+), 6 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index 95d6238282..32b7c01822 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -25,18 +25,18 @@ Agent mode is optimized for making autonomous edits across multiple files in you Agent mode is particularly useful for coding tasks when you have a less well-defined task that might also require running terminal commands and tools. Agent mode autonomously determines the relevant context and tasks to accomplish the request. It can also iterate multiple times to resolve intermediate issues, such as syntax errors or test failures. -## Agent mode vs Copilot Coding Agent +## Agent mode vs Copilot coding agent -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, [Copilot Coding Agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, [Copilot coding agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. -| Feature | Local Agent Mode | Copilot Coding Agent | +| Feature | Local Agent Mode | Copilot coding agent | |---------|------------------|---------------------| | **Where it runs** | Your VS Code editor | GitHub cloud | | **Independence** | Requires your interaction | Fully autonomous | | **Output** | Edits files directly | Creates pull requests | | **Best for** | Interactive development, immediate feedback | Well-defined tasks, background work | -This document describes local agent mode. You can learn more about the Copilot Coding Agent in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). +This document describes local agent mode. You can learn more about the Copilot coding agent in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). ## Enable agent mode in VS Code @@ -310,9 +310,9 @@ Consider the following criteria to choose between edit mode and agent mode: * **Self-healing**: agent mode evaluates the outcome of the generated edits and might iterate multiple times to resolve intermediate issues. * **Request quota**: in agent mode, depending on the complexity of the task, one prompt might result in many requests to the backend. -### When should I use Copilot Coding Agent instead of local agent mode? +### When should I use Copilot coding agent instead of local agent mode? -Use [Copilot Coding Agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) for well-defined tasks that can work independently in the background. Use local agent mode when you want to stay involved in the development process and iterate quickly on changes. +Use [Copilot coding agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) for well-defined tasks that can work independently in the background. Use local agent mode when you want to stay involved in the development process and iterate quickly on changes. ### I'm getting an error that says "Cannot have more than 128 tools per request." From 0d85103e0c8830969be7ee3e5baaceddec79c9ee Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:09:47 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 18/37] fix: clarify terminology for agent mode in documentation --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index 32b7c01822..3508208ceb 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -27,9 +27,9 @@ Agent mode is particularly useful for coding tasks when you have a less well-def ## Agent mode vs Copilot coding agent -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, [Copilot coding agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While agent mode provides interactive development directly within the editor, the [Copilot coding agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. -| Feature | Local Agent Mode | Copilot coding agent | +| Feature | Agent mode | Copilot coding agent | |---------|------------------|---------------------| | **Where it runs** | Your VS Code editor | GitHub cloud | | **Independence** | Requires your interaction | Fully autonomous | From 2c8be3c4969c4ddffaab0f35a141a2cff6daa346 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:10:56 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 19/37] fix: update terminology to refer to agent mode in documentation --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index 3508208ceb..e0c4c2e278 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -36,7 +36,7 @@ VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While agent mode provides inte | **Output** | Edits files directly | Creates pull requests | | **Best for** | Interactive development, immediate feedback | Well-defined tasks, background work | -This document describes local agent mode. You can learn more about the Copilot coding agent in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). +This document describes agent mode. You can learn more about the Copilot coding agent in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md). ## Enable agent mode in VS Code From fa28b0162f59e3c58be7098cb99afab2a33273c8 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:12:10 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 20/37] fix: update terminology to refer to agent mode in documentation --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 4 ++-- 1 file changed, 2 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index e0c4c2e278..277b8a659c 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -310,9 +310,9 @@ Consider the following criteria to choose between edit mode and agent mode: * **Self-healing**: agent mode evaluates the outcome of the generated edits and might iterate multiple times to resolve intermediate issues. * **Request quota**: in agent mode, depending on the complexity of the task, one prompt might result in many requests to the backend. -### When should I use Copilot coding agent instead of local agent mode? +### When should I use Copilot coding agent instead of agent mode? -Use [Copilot coding agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) for well-defined tasks that can work independently in the background. Use local agent mode when you want to stay involved in the development process and iterate quickly on changes. +Use [Copilot coding agent](/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md) for well-defined tasks that can work independently in the background. Use agent mode when you want to stay involved in the development process and iterate quickly on changes. ### I'm getting an error that says "Cannot have more than 128 tools per request." From e9cd00351ca896c5468da5d4355caf27ddb68c25 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:14:10 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 21/37] fix: update terminology for consistency in documentation --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index a555059d1f..ec9f1f914a 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- # GitHub Copilot coding agent -[GitHub Copilot coding agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks from Copilot Chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. +[GitHub Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks in chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. ![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) From 5b6fdad34ee5801fb79cc6377c848b22760cb868 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:15:59 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 22/37] fix: clarify terminology between Copilot coding agent and agent mode in documentation --- docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md | 2 +- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 8 ++++---- 2 files changed, 5 insertions(+), 5 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md index 277b8a659c..d885c389c1 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md +++ b/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md @@ -32,7 +32,7 @@ VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While agent mode provides inte | Feature | Agent mode | Copilot coding agent | |---------|------------------|---------------------| | **Where it runs** | Your VS Code editor | GitHub cloud | -| **Independence** | Requires your interaction | Fully autonomous | +| **Independence** | Involves user interaction and iteration | Fully autonomous | | **Output** | Edits files directly | Creates pull requests | | **Best for** | Interactive development, immediate feedback | Well-defined tasks, background work | diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index ec9f1f914a..f6330dd27f 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -161,18 +161,18 @@ The agent will respond to your feedback, make the requested changes, and update ## Frequently asked questions -### What's the difference between Copilot coding agent and local agent mode? +### What's the difference between Copilot coding agent and agent mode? -VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While local agent mode provides interactive development within your editor, the Copilot coding agent works independently in the background. +VS Code offers two autonomous coding experiences. While agent mode provides interactive development directly within the editor, the Copilot coding agent works independently on GitHub to implement features in the background. -| Feature | Copilot coding agent | Local Agent Mode | +| Feature | Copilot coding agent | Agent mode | |---------|---------------------|------------------| | **Where it runs** | GitHub cloud | Your VS Code editor | | **Independence** | Fully autonomous | Involves user interaction and iteration | | **Output** | Creates pull requests | Edits files directly | | **Best for** | Well-defined tasks, background work | Interactive development, immediate feedback | -Learn more about local agent mode in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). +Learn more about agent mode in its [documentation](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md). ### Why isn't the agent starting? From e457f96a7e0f1563d78f20e68132036f7447407e Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Fri, 25 Jul 2025 14:30:49 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 23/37] Refactor images --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 14 +++++++------- .../copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif | 3 +++ .../coding-agent-session-log.png | 3 +++ .../copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png | 3 +++ .../copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png | 3 +++ .../delegate-to-coding-agent-poster.png | 3 +++ .../delegate-to-coding-agent.mp4 | 3 +++ .../copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png | 3 +++ .../github-pull-request-coding-agent.png | 3 +++ 9 files changed, 31 insertions(+), 7 deletions(-) create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent-poster.png create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent.mp4 create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png create mode 100644 docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index f6330dd27f..eabe48192c 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks in chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. -![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) +![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) > [!NOTE] > Copilot coding agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). @@ -65,7 +65,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background - ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](../../release-notes/images/1_101/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) + ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) ### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat @@ -79,13 +79,13 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in the Chat view for repositories that have the agent enabled. Select this button to hand off your current chat context to the coding agent. - + **Use the #copilotCodingAgent tool** You can also reference the tool directly in your prompt to ask Copilot to continue a local change in the background. This tool automatically pushes pending changes to a remote branch and initiates a coding agent session: - ![Screenshot showing handing off a session to Copilot coding agent](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-start.png) + ![Screenshot showing handing off a session to Copilot coding agent](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png) 1. The agent will create a pull request and begin implementing the discussed changes @@ -100,7 +100,7 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** * Progress status for each task * Numeric badges indicating new changes or updates -![Screenshot showing status of multiple coding agent pull requests](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-status.png) +![Screenshot showing status of multiple coding agent pull requests](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png) ### View detailed session logs @@ -112,7 +112,7 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** * Tests run * Decision-making process - ![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](../../release-notes/images/1_102/coding-agent-session-log.png) + ![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png) > [!TIP] > When working with pull requests created by the coding agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat, allowing you to maintain context and continue working on the pull request with access to the coding agent session information. @@ -139,7 +139,7 @@ The Copilot coding agent will: * Include a detailed description explaining the implementation * Add screenshots when applicable (for UI changes) -![Screenshot showing a pull request from Copilot coding agent displayed in VS Code with an included screenshot of the implemented feature.](../../blogs/2025/07/17/draft-with-screenshot.png) +![Screenshot showing a pull request from Copilot coding agent displayed in VS Code with an included screenshot of the implemented feature.](images/copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png) ### Providing feedback diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..b3fa4fd2f7 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:83aa267e15deb1b97f4164558447baf4bd50185a611cb670e81c6a33a35e6728 +size 3084826 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..b152ef2790 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:d507900342174f950a6f119bf497d7fc3fab1a6955407bc9e2e976cdf5226495 +size 128458 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..7ee6fdddb9 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:fa99293ec6e0b7be543fce6fd823205bb14bbb0f5a2353ebe4d45e589922d704 +size 52639 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..3a4d28321d --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:ee643b296446f87db90fc16b9af02a0a0fa70e72766e77097349eb6ee6b0a248 +size 38695 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent-poster.png b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent-poster.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..60c50f1712 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent-poster.png @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:d5671d4353241a18e5c2284cfc30f5eb62919219056ca9038ad569bd6e95a18a +size 113027 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent.mp4 b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent.mp4 new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..6fda66f50e --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/delegate-to-coding-agent.mp4 @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:a90b6a83558ffb442c5233b27581b8cc337835a305baed56480d2145334ffeb9 +size 1639601 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..aafc27d79c --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:308c0fdef0f2891066eaaabec8f8c5c0d35a1addedfaf407fcf7b523e5b46c67 +size 305325 diff --git a/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png new file mode 100644 index 0000000000..ba08fa6a89 --- /dev/null +++ b/docs/copilot/images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png @@ -0,0 +1,3 @@ +version https://git-lfs.github.com/spec/v1 +oid sha256:96ba6db6a9e4a631e383bee0d752b62ae285421c6d9a8e46de465676d9c29767 +size 107857 From 3055bae6a12e2eeff0b68be65931106101222d7a Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:17:20 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 24/37] Feedback --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 10 +++++----- 1 file changed, 5 insertions(+), 5 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index eabe48192c..8625c54195 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -6,12 +6,12 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- # GitHub Copilot coding agent -[GitHub Copilot Coding Agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. You can assign GitHub issues to Copilot or delegate tasks in chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. +[GitHub Copilot coding agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. To invoke the coding agent, assign a GitHub issue to Copilot or delegate a task from chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. ![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) > [!NOTE] -> Copilot coding agent is in public preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). +> Copilot coding agent is in preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). ## What Copilot coding agent can do @@ -141,7 +141,7 @@ The Copilot coding agent will: ![Screenshot showing a pull request from Copilot coding agent displayed in VS Code with an included screenshot of the implemented feature.](images/copilot-coding-agent/draft-with-screenshot.png) -### Providing feedback +### Provide feedback You can guide the agent's work through pull request comments. Make sure to tag `@copilot` in your comments so the agent will respond: @@ -218,8 +218,8 @@ Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/e ## Next steps * Enable Copilot coding agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) -* Try [local agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code for immediate, interactive coding assistance -* Learn about [Copilot Chat](/docs/copilot/chat/copilot-chat.md) for conversational AI help +* Try [agent mode in VS Code](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) for immediate, interactive coding assistance +* Learn about [using chat in VS Code](/docs/copilot/chat/copilot-chat.md) for conversational AI help ## Related resources From 684c878aaa2c2a0670be62d74f16193c8ee74c63 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:23:34 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 25/37] Rework intro --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 14 +++----------- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 11 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 8625c54195..04408c98aa 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -6,23 +6,15 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png --- # GitHub Copilot coding agent -[GitHub Copilot coding agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is an autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. To invoke the coding agent, assign a GitHub issue to Copilot or delegate a task from chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. +[GitHub Copilot coding agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is a GitHub-hosted, autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. To invoke the coding agent, assign a GitHub issue to Copilot or delegate a task from chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. + +This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. ![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif) > [!NOTE] > Copilot coding agent is in preview and subject to change. During the preview, use of the feature is subject to [GitHub Pre-release License Terms](https://docs.github.com/en/site-policy/github-terms/github-pre-release-license-terms). -## What Copilot coding agent can do - -Copilot coding agent is a GitHub-hosted autonomous agent that works independently in an isolated environment to complete development tasks, such as: - -* **Fix bugs and implement features** across multiple files -* **Improve test coverage** and run automated checks -* **Refactor code and address technical debt** -* **Create pull requests** and work independently of your local environment - -This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. ## How it works From ffa6b04778284e4e99addfd69063f7e671f75d25 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:24:21 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 26/37] Update docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md Co-authored-by: Nick Trogh <1908215+ntrogh@users.noreply.github.com> --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 04408c98aa..0dafd48230 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -45,7 +45,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: > [!TIP] > If you don't have Copilot access yet, you can sign up for the [Copilot Free plan](https://github.com/features/copilot/plans) to get a monthly limit of interactions. -## Getting started in VS Code +## Assign work to Copilot coding agent in VS Code ### Method 1: Assign issues to Copilot From 99fa483d43fd78a5ac087037085419f02635fa9b Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:24:49 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 27/37] Update docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md Co-authored-by: Nick Trogh <1908215+ntrogh@users.noreply.github.com> --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 0dafd48230..6cdd8ac068 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -53,7 +53,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: 1. Find the issue you want to assign to Copilot -1. Right-click the issue and select **Assign to Copilot** or click the assign button and select `@copilot` +1. Right-click the issue and select **Assign to Copilot** or select **Assign** and then select `@copilot` 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background From 5b1a361645b6b9cb38924c1d1b66b1853b3af646 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:33:15 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 28/37] Remove content --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 4 ---- 1 file changed, 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 6cdd8ac068..bb77adc69e 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -203,10 +203,6 @@ For detailed information about limitations, compatibility, and usage costs, see ## Getting help -### Hands-on practice - -Try the [Expand your team with Copilot coding agent](https://github.com/skills/expand-your-team-with-copilot/) Skills exercise for practical experience. - ## Next steps * Enable Copilot coding agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) From 55010efc63957ba72605235d16040a9b2c4bb4a2 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Mon, 28 Jul 2025 15:35:20 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 29/37] Update docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md Co-authored-by: Nick Trogh <1908215+ntrogh@users.noreply.github.com> --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index bb77adc69e..152bfc95af 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -59,7 +59,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) -### Method 2: Delegate from Copilot Chat +### Method 2: Delegate from chat 1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) From dcd7e866fe7d39580f528cde33c0c1ca10819cd5 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:06:04 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 30/37] Feedback --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 7 ++++++- 1 file changed, 6 insertions(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 152bfc95af..cfeefcbcfb 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -37,7 +37,7 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: * **GitHub Copilot subscription**: Available with Copilot Pro, Pro+, Business, or Enterprise plans * **Write access**: You must have write permissions to the repository -* **Enable the agent**: Copilot coding agent must be enabled for your account or organization +* **Enable the agent**: Copilot coding agent [must be enabled](https://docs.github.com/copilot/concepts/coding-agent/enable-coding-agent) for your account or organization * **VS Code setup**: Install the [GitHub Pull Requests extension](https://marketplace.visualstudio.com/items?itemName=GitHub.vscode-pull-request-github) **Optional**: Enable the experimental setting `setting(githubPullRequests.codingAgent.uiIntegration)` to show a **Delegate to coding agent** button in Copilot Chat for easier task delegation. @@ -49,6 +49,8 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: ### Method 1: Assign issues to Copilot +You can trigger Copilot coding agent by assigning a GitHub issue to Copilot, similar to how you assign an issue to a team member. Copilot coding agent automatically analyzes the issue and starts working on it. + 1. In the **GitHub Pull Requests** view, navigate to the **Issues** section 1. Find the issue you want to assign to Copilot @@ -57,6 +59,9 @@ Before you can use Copilot coding agent, you need: 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background +> [!TIP] +> You can also assign issues to `@copilot` directly on GitHub.com. The coding agent will work the same way, creating a pull request that you can then review in VS Code or on GitHub. + ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) ### Method 2: Delegate from chat From d47d1c8c4831801d47fb72bd6ea7a1e57c2bddfd Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:10:09 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 31/37] Feedback --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 10 ++++++---- 1 file changed, 6 insertions(+), 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index cfeefcbcfb..3e4e926b4b 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -61,16 +61,18 @@ You can trigger Copilot coding agent by assigning a GitHub issue to Copilot, sim > [!TIP] > You can also assign issues to `@copilot` directly on GitHub.com. The coding agent will work the same way, creating a pull request that you can then review in VS Code or on GitHub. - +1. Open the Chat view in VS Code (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) ### Method 2: Delegate from chat -1. Open Copilot Chat (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) +You can also hand off work to Copilot coding agent directly from your chat conversation. Instead of having agent mode implement changes immediately in your editor, you can delegate the task to the coding agent to work on it autonomously in the background. + +1. Open the Chat view in VS Code (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) 1. Have a conversation about the feature or change you want to implement -1. When ready, delegate to the agent using one of these methods: +1. When ready, delegate to the agent by using one of these methods: **Use the delegate button (Experimental)** @@ -80,7 +82,7 @@ You can trigger Copilot coding agent by assigning a GitHub issue to Copilot, sim **Use the #copilotCodingAgent tool** - You can also reference the tool directly in your prompt to ask Copilot to continue a local change in the background. This tool automatically pushes pending changes to a remote branch and initiates a coding agent session: + You can also reference the `#copilotCodingAgent` tool directly in your prompt to ask Copilot to continue a local change in the background. This tool automatically pushes pending changes to a remote branch and initiates a coding agent session: ![Screenshot showing handing off a session to Copilot coding agent](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-start.png) From 448c689a30a63f72a1140a4af55767044b9933d9 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:27:17 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 32/37] Feedback --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 11 +++++++---- 1 file changed, 7 insertions(+), 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 3e4e926b4b..2e055afb3c 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -88,7 +88,7 @@ You can also hand off work to Copilot coding agent directly from your chat conve 1. The agent will create a pull request and begin implementing the discussed changes -## Tracking agent progress +## Track agent progress ### Monitor work in VS Code @@ -101,6 +101,9 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** ![Screenshot showing status of multiple coding agent pull requests](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-status.png) +> [!TIP] +> You can also monitor work that you assigned to `@copilot` through GitHub.com - all active sessions and pull requests will appear in this section regardless of where you initiated them. + ### View detailed session logs 1. In the Pull Requests view, find your agent's work under **Copilot on My Behalf** @@ -114,7 +117,7 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** ![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png) > [!TIP] -> When working with pull requests created by the coding agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat, allowing you to maintain context and continue working on the pull request with access to the coding agent session information. +> When working with pull requests created by the coding agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat. This gives chat context about your PR, including what files were changed, who's assigned, and the state (draft or ready for review). Attaching this context helps as you may want to learn more about and iterate on the PR in chat. ### Cancel a running session @@ -126,9 +129,9 @@ You can also cancel a session from GitHub.com: 1. Find the running Copilot Coding Agent workflow 1. Select **Cancel workflow** -## Reviewing and iterating +## Review and iterate -### When the agent completes work +### Work completion The Copilot coding agent will: From 269693fcdb8d7ae97781bd6abe4e66f6759691d0 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Tue, 29 Jul 2025 10:30:58 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 33/37] Feedback --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 5 +---- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 4 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 2e055afb3c..f70d64e57e 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -132,8 +132,7 @@ You can also cancel a session from GitHub.com: ## Review and iterate ### Work completion - -The Copilot coding agent will: +When the Copilot coding agent completes its work, it will proactively take several next steps: * Create a pull request with all changes * Assign the PR to you for review @@ -211,8 +210,6 @@ Learn more about [extending Copilot coding agent with MCP](https://docs.github.c For detailed information about limitations, compatibility, and usage costs, see the [GitHub Copilot Coding Agent documentation](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent). -## Getting help - ## Next steps * Enable Copilot coding agent by following the [GitHub setup guide](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/using-github-copilot/coding-agent/enabling-copilot-coding-agent) From 938d3f5354e057715bb8f9a97570c213428200d2 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:56:15 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 34/37] Update docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md Co-authored-by: Nick Trogh <1908215+ntrogh@users.noreply.github.com> --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index f70d64e57e..16172a9688 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -132,7 +132,7 @@ You can also cancel a session from GitHub.com: ## Review and iterate ### Work completion -When the Copilot coding agent completes its work, it will proactively take several next steps: +After the Copilot coding agent has analyzed your code and determined the changes that are needed to accomplish the task, it performs the following steps: * Create a pull request with all changes * Assign the PR to you for review From 82b550c40dbb03bd3f40ba84d9eb637c513691df Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:56:37 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 35/37] Update docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md Co-authored-by: Nick Trogh <1908215+ntrogh@users.noreply.github.com> --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 16172a9688..517c38e525 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -117,7 +117,7 @@ The GitHub Pull Requests extension provides a dedicated **Copilot on My Behalf** ![Screenshot showing the session log of a coding agent session.](images/copilot-coding-agent/coding-agent-session-log.png) > [!TIP] -> When working with pull requests created by the coding agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically attached to chat. This gives chat context about your PR, including what files were changed, who's assigned, and the state (draft or ready for review). Attaching this context helps as you may want to learn more about and iterate on the PR in chat. +> When working with pull requests created by the coding agent, the `#activePullRequest` tool is automatically enabled for your chat session. This gives chat context about your PR, including what files were changed, who's assigned, and the state (draft or ready for review). You can then ask about this PR and iterate further on it in chat. ### Cancel a running session From 66a4b6fcda4622aa7435cb3fa64fa1cd42907858 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2025 09:58:47 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 36/37] Move tip --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 5 +++-- 1 file changed, 3 insertions(+), 2 deletions(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 517c38e525..3fb499ca15 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -57,10 +57,11 @@ You can trigger Copilot coding agent by assigning a GitHub issue to Copilot, sim 1. Right-click the issue and select **Assign to Copilot** or select **Assign** and then select `@copilot` + > [!TIP] + > You can also assign issues to `@copilot` directly on GitHub.com. The coding agent will work the same way, creating a pull request that you can then review in VS Code or on GitHub. + 1. The agent will begin working on the issue in the background -> [!TIP] -> You can also assign issues to `@copilot` directly on GitHub.com. The coding agent will work the same way, creating a pull request that you can then review in VS Code or on GitHub. 1. Open the Chat view in VS Code (`kb(workbench.action.chat.open)`) ![Screenshot showing the GitHub Pull Requests view, highlighting the assign to Copilot action, and the PR query for work assigned to Copilot.](images/copilot-coding-agent/github-pull-request-coding-agent.png) From 61ff0bbfd7ed07812b87b53a7473c7f4c47f5260 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: Brigit Murtaugh Date: Wed, 30 Jul 2025 11:47:07 -0700 Subject: [PATCH 37/37] Intro --- docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md | 2 +- 1 file changed, 1 insertion(+), 1 deletion(-) diff --git a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md index 3fb499ca15..3362858eb4 100644 --- a/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md +++ b/docs/copilot/copilot-coding-agent.md @@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ MetaSocialImage: images/shared/github-copilot-social.png [GitHub Copilot coding agent](https://docs.github.com/en/copilot/concepts/about-copilot-coding-agent) is a GitHub-hosted, autonomous AI developer that works independently in the background to complete development tasks. To invoke the coding agent, assign a GitHub issue to Copilot or delegate a task from chat, and the agent will work autonomously to implement features, fix bugs, and make changes across your repository using its own isolated development environment. -This is different from the local [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which runs locally in your editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. +This is different from [agent mode](/docs/copilot/chat/chat-agent-mode.md) in VS Code, which provides interactive development within the editor and requires your active participation during the coding session. ![GIF showing how to assign an issue to Copilot coding agent from within VS Code.](images/copilot-coding-agent/assign-to-copilot-gif.gif)