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Guide to using copilot-instructions.md in kimu-core โ€‹

This guide explains what the copilot-instructions.md file is, how to integrate it into the kimu-core project, how it is used by AI agents (such as GitHub Copilot), and best practices to keep it effective.

What is copilot-instructions.md โ€‹

copilot-instructions.md is an instructions file located in the .github folder of the kimu-core project. It contains rules, conventions, examples, and best practices that guide Copilot and other AI agents in generating code that complies with the framework standards.

Purpose of the file โ€‹

  • Provide an authoritative source of rules and conventions for kimu-core development.
  • Improve the quality and consistency of code generated by AI agents.
  • Facilitate onboarding of new contributors.

Where to place it โ€‹

The file must be placed in .github/copilot-instructions.md at the root of the kimu-core project.

How Copilot and AI agents use it โ€‹

  • Copilot and AI agents automatically read the file if present in the .github folder.
  • The instructions are applied during code generation, suggestions, and refactoring.
  • You can mention the file in Copilot requests to get more precise results (e.g., "Follow the rules in copilot-instructions.md").

Best practices for maintenance โ€‹

  • Regularly update the file with new rules, examples, and conventions.
  • Document every new feature, pattern, or important change.
  • Keep the file clear, concise, and well-structured.
  • Link other rule files such as CODE_GUIDELINES.md, CONTRIBUTING.md, etc.

Usage examples โ€‹

"Create a new extension following the rules in copilot-instructions.md." "How do you integrate Three.js according to copilot-instructions.md?"

FAQ โ€‹

Q: Do I need to manually train Copilot? A: No, just make sure the file is present and up to date. Copilot uses it automatically.

Q: Can I use the file with other AI agents? A: Yes, any AI agent that supports instruction files can read and apply the rules.

Q: Where can I find practical examples? A: In the file itself and in the extension documentation.

Troubleshooting โ€‹

  • If Copilot does not follow the rules, check that the file is up to date and well-structured.
  • Specify in your requests that it should follow the instructions in the file.

Useful resources โ€‹


Organize the file into clear, easily navigable sections:

  • Introduction and purpose
  • Project structure
  • Development rules and conventions
  • Practical examples
  • FAQ and troubleshooting
  • Extension checklist
  • Glossary

How to write effective examples โ€‹

  • Use clear, commented TypeScript code.
  • Show real use cases and recurring patterns.
  • Include snippets for extensions, data binding, external library integration.

Workflow integration โ€‹

  • Include file checks in code reviews.
  • Mention the file in pull requests and technical discussions.
  • Use the file for onboarding new contributors.
  • You can integrate compliance checks via CI/CD scripts.

Practical benefits โ€‹

  • Reduces errors and inconsistencies in generated code.
  • Facilitates collaboration between developers and AI agents.
  • Improves project quality and maintainability.

Common mistakes to avoid โ€‹

  • Outdated or incomplete file.
  • Unclear or non-compliant examples.
  • Missing links to other rule files.

How to propose changes โ€‹

  • Open an issue or pull request in the kimu-core repository.
  • Clearly explain the reason for the change.
  • Also update related documentation if necessary.

External resources โ€‹

Glossary โ€‹

  • Copilot Agent: AI assistant that generates code following the file's instructions.
  • Extension: Custom module that adds functionality to kimu-core.
  • Data Binding: Reactive link between data and UI.
  • Checklist: List of steps to follow to create a new extension.
  • CI/CD: Continuous integration and deployment, useful for automating quality checks.

Update this guide whenever you change the rules or conventions in the copilot-instructions.md file.

Released under Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International (CC BY 4.0)