Skip to content

Operating Modes

Dodo isn't one-size-fits-all. Different tasks require different "mindsets." Dodo supports specialized Modes that change the system prompt and available tools.

Switch modes anytime using the /mode command.

1. Coder Mode (Default)

Goal: Implementation & Fixes.

This is the standard day-to-day mode. The agent assumes it is a Senior Software Engineer paired with you.

  • Strengths: Writing code, refactoring, fixing bugs, running tests.
  • Tools: Full access (Read, Write, Execute).
  • Behavior: Biased towards action. It will try to solve the problem by editing files.

2. Architect Mode

Goal: High-Level Design & Planning.

Use this mode when you are starting a complex feature and want to discuss the approach before writing code.

  • Strengths: System design, directory structure planning, technology choices.
  • Tools: Read-only (mostly). It can read files to understand the current state but is discouraged from making edits.
  • Behavior: Biased towards discussion and creating implementation_plan.md artifacts.

3. Ask Mode

Goal: Q&A and Exploration.

Use this mode when you just want to understand the codebase without any risk of changing it.

  • Strengths: "Where is the auth logic defined?", "How does the billing system work?".
  • Tools: Read-only (Search, Read). Write tools are disabled.
  • Behavior: Purely conversational. It acts as an expert guide to your repository.