Quickstart

Step by Step Guide

Step 1: Open Kilo Code

Click the Kilo Code icon in the VS Code Primary Side Bar to open the chat panel. If you don't see the icon, verify the extension is installed.

Step 2: Type Your Task

Type a clear, concise description of what you want Kilo Code to do in the chat box. The same examples work here:

• "Create a file named hello.txt containing 'Hello, world!'."
• "Write a Python function that adds two numbers."
• "Create an HTML file for a simple website with the title 'Kilo test'"

No special commands or syntax needed—just use plain English.

Step 3: Send Your Task

Press Enter to send.

Step 4: Review & Approve Actions

Kilo Code analyzes your request and proposes actions. By default, most tools are auto-approved — only shell commands, external directory access, and sensitive file reads will prompt for confirmation. You'll see the tool name, arguments, and can approve or reject each action.

To change which actions require approval, open Settings (gear icon) and go to the Auto-Approve tab. You can set each tool to Allow, Ask, or Deny. See Auto-Approving Actions for details.

Step 5: Iterate

Kilo Code works iteratively. Continue giving feedback or follow-up instructions until your task is complete.

Key Differences from Legacy

• Settings are managed via kilo.jsonc config files (the Settings webview reads and writes the same files)
• Permissions use a granular per-tool system instead of broad approval categories
• Modes are called "agents" and configured as .md files or via the agent config key
• Autocomplete uses FIM (Fill-in-the-Middle) with Codestral