Recommended first prompts
explain this file @src/index.ts
fix the failing build and keep the diff minimal
review this module for security issues
Go from install to first patch in minutes.
Use this path when you want a clean first run: install the CLI, connect your provider, open a repo, and make a real change with approval flow enabled.
01
Install globally
npm i -g cortical-code
Install once so the `cortical` command is available in any project.
02
Launch in a repo
cd your-project && cortical
Cortical Code scans the workspace and prepares the terminal session around the current repo.
03
Add your provider key
openai / anthropic / gemini / groq / openrouter / custom
The first-run wizard validates the key before storing it locally for the CLI.
04
Ask for a real task
refactor the auth module to use JWT
Normal mode will show the intended changes and ask for approval before writing files.
Useful defaults
Normal mode firstUse approval gating until you trust the model and prompt flow in the repo.
Plan mode for larger workUse it when you want structured steps and follow-up questions before implementation.
Use @file injectionAttach exact file contents inline when context precision matters.