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Interactive Mode

Forge’s interactive mode provides a conversational terminal interface where you can collaborate with AI in real-time. When you run forge without arguments, you enter an interactive session where the AI becomes your coding partner.

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Starting Interactive Mode

To start an interactive session, simply run: 
forge
This launches Forge in interactive mode, where you can have ongoing conversations with the AI about your codebase.

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How It Works

In interactive mode, Forge:
  1. Analyzes your context - Understands your current directory and project structure
  2. Maintains conversation state - Remembers your previous messages and decisions
  3. Executes tools - Can read files, run commands, and modify code on your behalf
  4. Provides real-time feedback - Shows you what it’s doing as it works

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Direct Prompt Mode

If you need to execute a single task without entering an interactive session, you can use the -p flag: 
forge -p "Refactor the authentication module to use async/await"
This executes the prompt and exits, making it useful for scripts and automation.
Direct prompt mode is ideal for CI/CD pipelines, git hooks, or quick one-off tasks.

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Command File Execution

You can also provide a file containing commands to execute: 
forge -c commands.txt
This is useful for running pre-defined workflows or batch operations.

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Interactive Commands

While in interactive mode, you have access to several built-in commands:
  • /help - Display available commands
  • /model - Switch the AI model
  • /exit - Exit the interactive session
  • /clear - Clear the conversation history

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Session Management

Forge automatically saves your conversation history, allowing you to:
  • Resume previous conversations
  • Review past interactions
  • Export conversations for documentation
You can manage conversations using the --conversation flag: 
forge --conversation path/to/saved-conversation.json

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Custom Commands

You can define custom commands in your forge.yaml to create shortcuts for repetitive prompts: 
commands:
  - name: "refactor"
    description: "Refactor selected code"
    prompt: "Please refactor this code to improve readability and performance"
  - name: "review"
    description: "Review code for issues"
    prompt: "Review this code and suggest improvements for security, performance, and maintainability"
Use custom commands by typing /refactor or /review in the interactive session.
Custom commands help standardize common tasks across your team and ensure consistent code quality.

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Restricted Mode

For enhanced security, you can enable restricted shell mode: 
forge --restricted
Restricted mode limits the AI’s ability to execute certain shell commands, providing an extra layer of safety when working with sensitive codebases.
Restricted mode prevents potentially dangerous operations but may limit the AI’s ability to help with certain tasks.

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Verbose Output

Enable verbose mode to see detailed information about what Forge is doing: 
forge --verbose
This is helpful for debugging or understanding the AI’s decision-making process.

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Best Practices

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Be Specific

The more specific your request, the better the results:
  • Good: “Add error handling to the login function in src/auth.ts”
  • Better: “Add try-catch blocks with proper error messages to the login function in src/auth.ts, and log errors to our logging service”

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Provide Context

Mention relevant files, functions, or patterns in your codebase: 
I need to update the user profile component to match the pattern we use in the settings component

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Iterate and Refine

Don’t expect perfect results on the first try. Forge works best when you iterate:
  1. Make an initial request
  2. Review the output
  3. Provide feedback and refinements
  4. Continue until you’re satisfied

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Use Version Control

Always commit your work before major changes: 
git commit -am "Before AI refactoring"
forge -p "Refactor the entire authentication module"
This gives you an easy way to review changes and roll back if needed.

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