Update a codebase with Copilot in chat and agent mode

A developer used GitHub Copilot to make code changes and preferred the CLI’s autopilot workflow and todo list.

Done with GitHub Copilot· Intermediate

What they did
A commenter said they use GitHub Copilot inside VS Code to handle codebase changes through chat and agent mode. In the thread, they asked how the CLI compares on premium-request handling and answer quality, and the reply said the CLI follows the same premium-request multiplier rules as the IDE. They also described the CLI agent as a system that examines the repository, lays out a plan, writes code, runs tests, and opens pull requests.
How it went
Their report was subjective rather than measured: they said the CLI gives better results for them and that they usually leave it in autopilot. No counts, timing data, or success rates were provided.
Tips
For this kind of task, ask for a plan first and make the agent wait before any irreversible action. If the work touches tests or build steps, tell it to pause whenever a decision or approval is needed.

Try it yourself with GitHub Copilot

Use GitHub Copilot CLI to help with [describe the change to my codebase]. Start by reviewing the repository and writing a short task list, then show it to me and wait for approval. After that, complete the items one at a time, marking each one off, and run the relevant tests or build checks along the way. Stop before any irreversible action, such as submitting, sending, deleting, or opening a pull request, and ask me to confirm first. When you finish, give me a brief summary of what changed and anything that still needs attention.

Fill in the [brackets]. Agents can make mistakes, so review anything before it is sent, paid or deleted.

Read the original on reddit.com ↗

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