try Kimi

Kimi Code CLI provides multiple interaction methods to help you collaborate with the AI efficiently.

Agent mode vs. shell mode

Kimi Code CLI has two input modes:

  • Agent Mode (default): Your input is sent to the AI for processing — the AI reads code, executes commands, modifies files, and more.
  • Shell Mode: Execute shell commands directly without leaving Kimi Code CLI.

Press Ctrl-X to quickly switch between the two modes. Shell Mode also supports select slash commands such as /help, /exit, /version, etc.

Thinking mode

Thinking Mode enables the AI to perform deeper reasoning before responding — ideal for complex problems.

  • Use the /model command to switch models and toggle Thinking Mode.
  • You can also enable Thinking Mode at launch with the --thinking flag.

Multi-line input

Press Ctrl-J to insert a newline for multi-line input. This is useful for longer prompts or pasting multi-line code snippets.

Clipboard paste

Press Ctrl-V to paste content from the clipboard — supports both text and images. When pasting images, the AI can directly interpret the image content (e.g., screenshots, design mockups, error screenshots).

Slash commands

Commands starting with / are used to control sessions, configuration, and debugging. Common commands include:

CommandDescription
/helpDisplay help information
/loginLog in and authorize
/modelSwitch models and Thinking Mode
/sessionsList and switch sessions
/clearClear the current context
/compactCompress the context
/initGenerate AGENTS.md
/exitExit the CLI

Typing / in the input field will automatically display a list of available commands.

@ Path completion

Use the @ symbol in your input to reference file or directory paths — the system will auto-complete:

Text

The AI will automatically read the referenced file content as context.

Structured Q&A

In certain scenarios, the AI will present structured options for your input. Use the arrow keys to select an option and press Enter to confirm.

Approval confirmation

When the AI needs to perform file modifications, shell commands, or other operations, it will ask for your confirmation. You can choose:

OptionDescription
AllowPermit this operation
Allow for SessionAllow similar operations for the rest of the current session without further prompts
DenyReject this operation

YOLO mode

If you trust the AI's operations, you can use YOLO Mode to skip all confirmations:

Bash

In YOLO Mode the AI will automatically execute all operations — use with caution. Recommended only in controlled development environments.