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Plan Mode

Plan Mode is a powerful feature in Opencode that helps you break down complex tasks into actionable steps and create implementation plans.

Switching to Plan Mode

To switch to Plan Mode, simply press the Tab key while in the Opencode interface. This will toggle between the regular chat mode and Plan Mode.

Keyboard Shortcut

  • Tab Key: Toggle between Chat Mode and Plan Mode
  • Esc Key: Exit Plan Mode and return to Chat Mode

Creating an Implementation Plan

When in Plan Mode, follow these steps to create a comprehensive implementation plan:

  1. Describe your task: Provide a clear description of what you want to accomplish
  2. Review the generated plan: Opencode will automatically generate a step-by-step plan
  3. Refine the plan: Add, remove, or modify steps as needed
  4. Execute the plan: Follow the plan to complete your task

Example Workflow

Step 1: Activate Plan Mode

Press Tab to switch to Plan Mode. You’ll see a dedicated interface for planning.

Step 2: Describe Your Task

I need to implement a user authentication system for my React application

Step 3: Review the Generated Plan

Opencode will generate a plan like this:

  1. Set up authentication state management
  2. Create login and registration forms
  3. Implement API endpoints for authentication
  4. Add JWT token handling
  5. Set up protected routes
  6. Add password reset functionality
  7. Test the authentication flow

Step 4: Refine the Plan

You can modify the plan to fit your specific needs:

1. Set up authentication state management with Redux Toolkit
2. Create login and registration forms with form validation
3. Implement API endpoints for authentication using Express
4. Add JWT token handling with secure storage
5. Set up protected routes with React Router
6. Add password reset functionality with email verification
7. Test the authentication flow with Cypress

Step 5: Execute the Plan

Follow each step to implement the authentication system. You can ask Opencode for help with any specific step.

Benefits of Plan Mode

1. Structured Approach

Plan Mode helps you break down complex tasks into manageable steps, making it easier to tackle large projects.

2. Better Organization

The visual plan interface keeps your tasks organized and helps you track your progress.

3. Improved Communication

The plan serves as a clear communication tool, especially when working with team members.

4. Time Saving

By planning ahead, you can avoid mistakes and rework, saving time in the long run.

5. Focused Execution

With a clear plan, you can stay focused on one task at a time, improving productivity.

Example Conversation

User Input

I need to create a responsive navigation bar for my website

Opencode’s Plan

  1. Analyze the current website structure
  2. Design the navigation bar layout
  3. Implement responsive design with media queries
  4. Add interactive elements (hover effects, dropdown menus)
  5. Test across different devices and browsers
  6. Optimize for performance

User Refinement

1. Analyze the current website structure and identify navigation needs
2. Design the navigation bar layout with a mobile-first approach
3. Implement responsive design with Tailwind CSS
4. Add interactive elements (hover effects, dropdown menus, smooth scrolling)
5. Test across different devices and browsers using browserstack
6. Optimize for performance with lazy loading
7. Add accessibility features

Opencode’s Response

Great plan! Let’s start with step 1. Can you share your current website structure so I can analyze it properly?

Video Demonstration

Plan Mode Demonstration
Video: How to use Plan Mode in Opencode

Best Practices

  • Be specific: Provide clear and detailed descriptions of your tasks
  • Break it down: Split large tasks into smaller, manageable steps
  • Prioritize: Focus on the most important steps first
  • Be flexible: Adjust your plan as needed based on new information
  • Review regularly: Check your progress and make adjustments as necessary

Conclusion

Plan Mode is a valuable tool for anyone working on complex coding tasks. By providing a structured approach to task management, it helps you stay organized, focused, and efficient. Whether you’re working on a small feature or a large project, Plan Mode can help you achieve your goals more effectively.

Remember, you can switch between Chat Mode and Plan Mode at any time using the Tab key, allowing you to seamlessly transition between brainstorming and execution.