* Improve tool descriptions to guide proper file editing tool selection ### Problem LLMs were frequently choosing `write_to_file` for file edits instead of more appropriate tools like `apply_diff`, `insert_content`, or `search_and_replace`. This was likely because the tool descriptions made it seem like files needed to be reconstructed rather than edited. ### Changes Made **write_to_file tool description:** - Clarified primary use cases: **creating new files** or **complete rewrites when intentionally required** - Changed opening from "write full content" to "write content" to reduce emphasis on full reconstruction - Updated parameter description to be more specific about when complete content is needed **apply_diff tool description:** - Enhanced description to emphasize "targeted modifications" and "precise, surgical edits" - Clarified that multiple search/replace operations can be performed in a single call - Removed misleading "only a single operation allowed" restriction - Better positioned as the preferred tool for making several targeted changes efficiently ### Impact These changes should guide LLMs toward: - Using `write_to_file` primarily for new files or intentional complete rewrites - Using `apply_diff` for targeted edits and modifications to existing files - Better understanding of when each tool is most appropriate The updated descriptions maintain necessary technical details while providing clearer guidance on tool selection without being overly prescriptive. * Update src/core/prompts/tools/write-to-file.ts Co-authored-by: ellipsis-dev[bot] <65095814+ellipsis-dev[bot]@users.noreply.github.com> * Update src/core/prompts/tools/write-to-file.ts Co-authored-by: Matt Rubens <mrubens@users.noreply.github.com> * Update src/core/prompts/tools/write-to-file.ts Co-authored-by: Matt Rubens <mrubens@users.noreply.github.com> --------- Co-authored-by: ellipsis-dev[bot] <65095814+ellipsis-dev[bot]@users.noreply.github.com> Co-authored-by: Matt Rubens <mrubens@users.noreply.github.com> |
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Roo Code (prev. Roo Cline)
Connect with developers, contribute ideas, and stay ahead with the latest AI-powered coding tools.
Roo Code is an AI-powered autonomous coding agent that lives in your editor. It can:
- Communicate in natural language
- Read and write files directly in your workspace
- Run terminal commands
- Automate browser actions
- Integrate with any OpenAI-compatible or custom API/model
- Adapt its “personality” and capabilities through Custom Modes
Whether you’re seeking a flexible coding partner, a system architect, or specialized roles like a QA engineer or product manager, Roo Code can help you build software more efficiently.
Check out the CHANGELOG for detailed updates and fixes.
🎉 Roo Code 3.18 Released
Roo Code 3.18 brings powerful new features and improvements based on your feedback!
- Gemini 2.5 Flash Preview Models - Access the latest Gemini Flash models for faster and more efficient responses.
- Intelligent Context Condensing Button - New button in task header lets you intelligently condense content with visual feedback.
- YAML Support for Mode Definitions - Create and customize modes more easily with YAML support.
What Can Roo Code Do?
- 🚀 Generate Code from natural language descriptions
- 🔧 Refactor & Debug existing code
- 📝 Write & Update documentation
- 🤔 Answer Questions about your codebase
- 🔄 Automate repetitive tasks
- 🏗️ Create new files and projects
Quick Start
Key Features
Multiple Modes
Roo Code adapts to your needs with specialized modes:
- Code Mode: For general-purpose coding tasks
- Architect Mode: For planning and technical leadership
- Ask Mode: For answering questions and providing information
- Debug Mode: For systematic problem diagnosis
- Custom Modes: Create unlimited specialized personas for security auditing, performance optimization, documentation, or any other task
Smart Tools
Roo Code comes with powerful tools that can:
- Read and write files in your project
- Execute commands in your VS Code terminal
- Control a web browser
- Use external tools via MCP (Model Context Protocol)
MCP extends Roo Code's capabilities by allowing you to add unlimited custom tools. Integrate with external APIs, connect to databases, or create specialized development tools - MCP provides the framework to expand Roo Code's functionality to meet your specific needs.
Customization
Make Roo Code work your way with:
- Custom Instructions for personalized behavior
- Custom Modes for specialized tasks
- Local Models for offline use
- Auto-Approval Settings for faster workflows
Resources
Documentation
Community
- Discord: Join our Discord server for real-time help and discussions
- Reddit: Visit our subreddit to share experiences and tips
- GitHub: Report issues or request features
Local Setup & Development
- Clone the repo:
git clone https://github.com/RooCodeInc/Roo-Code.git
- Install dependencies:
pnpm install
- Run the extension:
Press F5 (or Run → Start Debugging) in VSCode to open a new window with Roo Code running.
Changes to the webview will appear immediately. Changes to the core extension will require a restart of the extension host.
Alternatively you can build a .vsix and install it directly in VSCode:
pnpm build
A .vsix file will appear in the bin/ directory which can be installed with:
code --install-extension bin/roo-cline-<version>.vsix
We use changesets for versioning and publishing. Check our CHANGELOG.md for release notes.
Disclaimer
Please note that Roo Code, Inc does not make any representations or warranties regarding any code, models, or other tools provided or made available in connection with Roo Code, any associated third-party tools, or any resulting outputs. You assume all risks associated with the use of any such tools or outputs; such tools are provided on an "AS IS" and "AS AVAILABLE" basis. Such risks may include, without limitation, intellectual property infringement, cyber vulnerabilities or attacks, bias, inaccuracies, errors, defects, viruses, downtime, property loss or damage, and/or personal injury. You are solely responsible for your use of any such tools or outputs (including, without limitation, the legality, appropriateness, and results thereof).
Contributing
We love community contributions! Get started by reading our CONTRIBUTING.md.
Contributors
Thanks to all our contributors who have helped make Roo Code better!
License
Apache 2.0 © 2025 Roo Code, Inc.
Enjoy Roo Code! Whether you keep it on a short leash or let it roam autonomously, we can’t wait to see what you build. If you have questions or feature ideas, drop by our Reddit community or Discord. Happy coding!