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Frequently Asked Questions

This page answers some common questions about ProdE.

General​

What is ProdE?​

ProdE is an AI-powered autonomous coding agent that lives in your editor.

How does ProdE work?​

ProdE uses large language models (LLMs) to understand your requests and translate them into actions. It can:

  • Read and write files in your project.
  • Execute commands in your VS Code terminal.
  • Perform web browsing (if enabled).
  • Use external tools via the Model Context Protocol (MCP).

You interact with ProdE through a chat interface, where you provide instructions and review/approve its proposed actions.

What can ProdE do?​

ProdE can help with a variety of coding tasks, including:

  • Generating code from natural language descriptions.
  • Refactoring existing code.
  • Fixing bugs.
  • Writing documentation.
  • Explaining code.
  • Answering questions about your codebase.
  • Automating repetitive tasks.
  • Creating new files and projects.

Is ProdE free to use?​

The ProdE extension itself is free and open-source. However, ProdE relies on external API providers (like Anthropic, OpenAI, OpenRouter, Requesty, etc.) for its AI capabilities. These providers typically charge for API usage based on the number of tokens processed. You will need to create an account and obtain an API key from your chosen provider. See Setting Up Your First AI Provider for details.

What are the risks of using ProdE?​

ProdE is a powerful tool, and it's important to use it responsibly. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • ProdE can make mistakes. Always review ProdE's proposed changes carefully before approving them.
  • ProdE can execute commands. Be very cautious about allowing ProdE to run commands, especially if you're using auto-approval.
  • ProdE can access the internet. If you're using a provider that supports web browsing, be aware that ProdE could potentially access sensitive information.

Setup & Installation​

How do I install ProdE?​

See the Installation Guide for detailed instructions.

Which API providers are supported?​

ProdE supports a wide range of API providers, including:

How do I get an API key?​

Each API provider has its own process for obtaining an API key. See the Setting Up Your First AI Provider for links to the relevant documentation for each provider.

Can I use ProdE with local models?​

Yes, ProdE supports running models locally using Ollama and LM Studio. See Using Local Models for instructions.

Usage​

How do I start a new task?​

Open the ProdE panel () and type your task in the chat box. Be clear and specific about what you want ProdE to do. See Typing Your Requests for best practices.

What are modes in ProdE?​

Modes are different personas that ProdE can adopt, each with a specific focus and set of capabilities. The built-in modes are:

  • Code: For general-purpose coding tasks.
  • Architect: For planning and technical leadership.
  • Ask: For answering questions and providing information.
  • Debug: For systematic problem diagnosis.

You can also create Custom Modes.

How do I switch between modes?​

Use the dropdown menu in the chat input area to select a different mode, or use the / command to switch to a specific mode.

What are tools and how do I use them?​

Tools are how ProdE interacts with your system. ProdE automatically selects and uses the appropriate tools to complete your tasks. You don't need to call tools directly. You will be prompted to approve or reject each tool use.

What are context mentions?​

Context mentions are a way to provide ProdE with specific information about your project, such as files, folders, or problems. Use the "@" symbol followed by the item you want to mention (e.g., @/src/file.ts, @problems).

Can ProdE access the internet?​

Yes, if you are using a provider with a model that support web browsing. Be mindful of the security implications of allowing this.

Can ProdE run commands in my terminal?​

Yes, ProdE can execute commands in your VS Code terminal. You will be prompted to approve each command before it's executed, unless you've enabled auto-approval for commands. Be extremely cautious about auto-approving commands. If you're experiencing issues with terminal commands, see the Shell Integration Guide for troubleshooting.

How do I provide feedback to ProdE?​

You can provide feedback by approving or rejecting ProdE's proposed actions. You can provide additional feedback by using the feedback field.

Can I customize ProdE's behavior?​

Yes, you can customize ProdE in several ways:

  • Custom Instructions: Provide general instructions that apply to all modes, or mode-specific instructions.
  • Custom Modes: Create your own modes with tailored prompts and tool permissions.
  • .clinerules Files: Create .clinerules files in your project to provide additional guidelines.
  • Settings: Adjust various settings, such as auto-approval, diff editing, and more.

Does ProdE have any auto approval settings?​

Yes, ProdE has a few settings that when enabled will automatically approve actions. Find out more here.

Advanced Features​

Can I use ProdE offline?​

Yes, if you use a local model.

What is MCP (Model Context Protocol)?​

MCP is a protocol that allows ProdE to communicate with external servers, extending its capabilities with custom tools and resources.

Can I create my own MCP servers?​

Yes, you can create your own MCP servers to add custom functionality to ProdE. See the MCP documentation for details.

Troubleshooting​

ProdE isn't responding. What should I do?​

  • Make sure your API key is correct and hasn't expired.
  • Check your internet connection.
  • Check the status of your chosen API provider.
  • Try restarting VS Code.
  • If the problem persists, report the issue on contact@curiousbox.ai.

I'm seeing an error message. What does it mean?​

The error message should provide some information about the problem. If you're unsure how to resolve it, seek help in the community forums.

ProdE made changes I didn't want. How do I undo them?​

ProdE uses VS Code's built-in file editing capabilities. You can use the standard "Undo" command (Ctrl/Cmd + Z) to revert changes. Also, if experimental checkpoints are enabled, ProdE can revert changes made to a file.

How do I report a bug or suggest a feature?​

Please report bugs or suggest features on the ProdE Issues page and Feature Requests page.

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