# What is a coding agent?

> 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.

## Analogy

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 terminal 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 global-instructions: 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.

## 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

```text
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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Source: [Agentic Makers](https://agenticmakers.app/en/learn/what-is-a-coding-agent) · License: CC BY 4.0