Overview

AI coding agents in VS Code that accept natural language commands to read/write files, run terminal commands, and plan tasks.

Installation & Setup

Install via the VS Code Marketplace, reload, and configure your API key or select your preferred model.

code --install-extension rooveterinaryinc.roo-cline

Key Features

Chat interface, file edits, terminal execution, multi-step tasks, and two main modes: Plan (design) and Act (execute).

Auto-Run Commands

Enable auto-approve for non-critical tasks (e.g., read-only actions) and customize command syntax for your environment.

Memory Bank

Persist project context using dedicated files (e.g., activeContext.md). Use "update memory bank" around 70–80% context usage to save progress and start new tasks.

Task Segmentation

Begin in Plan mode to outline tasks, then switch to Act mode for code execution to keep context manageable.

Switching Models

Configure within the extension settings or during mode transitions to leverage each model's strengths.

Plan/Act Cycle

Generate detailed plans (design docs, step-by-step breakdowns) before execution.

Custom Modes

Set up tailored instructions (e.g., "Tester" mode) for frequently repeated tasks.

{
  "customModes": [
    {
      "slug": "tester",
      "name": "Tester",
      "roleDefinition": "You are a testing expert who specializes in writing comprehensive test suites",
      "groups": ["read", "edit", "command"]
    }
  ]
}

Efficiency Tweaks

Limit terminal output, adjust command delays, use checkpoints (and Git) for safe rollbacks, and refine output through iterative review.

Context Overflow

Save key context to the Memory Bank to avoid token overflow; refresh context by starting new tasks.

Instruction Adherence

Reiterate critical instructions in custom prompts if the AI deviates.

Glitches

Reload VS Code if the extension freezes; always update to the latest version.

Risk Management

Use full auto-approve only in safe, experimental environments with frequent backups.

Community Best Practices

Check forums and release notes for the latest tips, case studies, and improvements.