Features
- Real-time code suggestions as you type
- Chat interface for code explanations and generation
- Multi-file context awareness
- IDE extensions for VS Code, JetBrains, and Neovim
Pros
- Seamless inline suggestions without context switching
- Deep GitHub integration with PR reviews
- Widest IDE support of any AI coding tool
Cons
- Monthly subscription cost
- Suggestions quality varies by language and context
- Can generate incorrect or insecure code
Overview
GitHub Copilot is an AI-powered coding assistant that provides real-time code suggestions directly in your editor. Developed by GitHub in partnership with OpenAI, it uses large language models to suggest code completions, entire functions, and solutions based on your current context.
Copilot works as a pair programmer: as you type, it analyzes your code, comments, and file context to suggest relevant completions. You can accept suggestions with a tab key, cycle through alternatives, or ignore them entirely. The Copilot Chat feature allows you to ask questions about your code, generate code from natural language descriptions, and get explanations of complex logic.
GitHub Copilot has been adopted by millions of developers and is integrated into VS Code, JetBrains IDEs, Visual Studio, and Neovim.
When to Use
Use GitHub Copilot for day-to-day coding when you want inline suggestions and quick code generation without leaving your editor. It is best for writing boilerplate, implementing well-known patterns, and getting quick answers about code.
Getting Started
1. Subscribe to GitHub Copilot at github.com/features/copilot
2. Install the GitHub Copilot extension in your editor
3. Sign in with your GitHub account
4. Start coding - suggestions appear automatically