Shell Mode

Shell Mode runs shell commands directly from the CLI without leaving your conversation. Use it for quick, non-interactive commands with safety checks and output displayed in the conversation.

Command execution

Commands run in your login shell ($SHELL) with the CLI's working directory and environment. Chain commands to run in other directories:

cd subdir && npm test

Output

Large outputs are truncated automatically and long-running processes timeout to maintain performance.

Limitations

• Commands timeout after 30 seconds
• Long-running processes, servers, and interactive prompts are not supported
• Use short, non-interactive commands for best results

Permissions

Commands are checked against your permissions and team settings before execution. See Permissions for detailed configuration.

Admin policies may block certain commands, and commands with redirection cannot be allowlisted inline.

Usage guidelines

Shell Mode works well for status checks, quick builds, file operations, and environment inspection.

Avoid long-running servers, interactive applications, and commands requiring input.

Each command runs independently - use cd <dir> && ... to run commands in other directories.

Troubleshooting

• If a command hangs, cancel with Ctrl+C and add non-interactive flags
• When prompted for permissions, approve once or add to allowlist with Tab
• For truncated output, use Ctrl+O to expand
• To run in different directories, use cd <dir> && ... since changes don't persist
• Shell Mode supports zsh and bash from your $SHELL variable

FAQ