L01 · Before you start · 4 min
What is a coding agent?
In one sentence
A coding agent is an AI that works inside your project folder: it reads files, writes code and runs commands, step by step, while you decide what to build and check the result.
Think of it like this
Think of a skilled builder who never gets tired but needs a clear brief. You're the client with the vision; the agent is the crew. A chatbot gives you advice about building a house; an agent picks up the tools.
How it works
A chat assistant answers in a window and forgets your files. A coding agent is connected to your computer: it can open the files in your project, change them, and run DefinitionterminalA window where you type commands instead of clicking. Your agent mostly uses it for you.Open in the glossary → commands such as starting your app.
Because it can act, it asks permission first. In Manual mode you approve each change and each command. That's how you stay in charge while learning.
It also follows Definitionglobal instructionsA text file your agent reads at the start of every session, in every project. The Agentic Makers Guide is one.Open in the glossary →: a text file it reads at the start of every session. The Agentic Makers Guide is one of those: it teaches the agent to go step by step, protect your secrets and explain everything plainly.
What it looks like in your project
You'll see your agent propose a change, show you the files it wants to touch, and wait. You read its one-line explanation and approve. When it runs a command, it tells you first what the command does.
Copy for your agent
Explain what you can and can't do in my project, in five plain sentences, and tell me when you'll ask my permission.
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