Guides / GitHub Copilot

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Troiana field guide · AI coding agent

How to use GitHub Copilot

Making scoped changes in a connected repository while reviewing the diff and carrying the work into a pull request.

Where to find it

Start at https://github.com/features/copilot. GitHub documents a desktop Copilot app, and Copilot is also available in supported developer environments..

Desktop app and setup

You need a GitHub account and either Copilot access or a configured model provider. GitHub's desktop-app guide also requires Git for local project work.

Open the official download page →

Your first useful workflow

  1. Install and sign in to the GitHub Copilot app, then connect one local folder or repository.
  2. Ask for a small, low-risk change and require an explanation of the planned files and checks.
  3. Use an interactive agent session so you can answer questions as it works.
  4. Review the diff, run the relevant checks, and create a pull request only when you understand the change.

What to watch for

Connecting a repository grants the tool context about that codebase. Review organisation policy, model-provider credentials, and the generated diff before you accept or publish a change.

Go deeper with Troiana

Use the platform-specific techniques, prompt patterns, and verification habits in the Troiana AI Hub once you have completed the initial setup.

Official sources