QodeAssist/docs/file-context.md

File Context Feature

QodeAssist provides two powerful ways to include source code files in your chat conversations: Attachments and Linked Files. Each serves a distinct purpose and helps provide better context for the AI assistant.

Attached Files

Attachments are designed for one-time code analysis and specific queries:

• Files are sent as part of the current message
• The content is a snapshot taken at send time: it is stored with the chat and stays in the conversation history exactly as sent, even if the file changes on disk later
• Ideal for:
  • Getting specific feedback on code changes
  • Code review requests
  • Analyzing isolated code segments
  • Quick implementation questions
• Files can be attached using the paperclip icon in the chat interface
• Multiple files can be attached to a single message

Linked Files

Linked files provide persistent context throughout the conversation:

• Files remain accessible for the entire chat session
• Files are automatically refreshed — every request re-reads them and sends the latest content from disk
• The snapshot travels next to your latest message and is never duplicated into the conversation history, so linked files do not bloat the chat as it grows
• Perfect for:
  • Long-term refactoring discussions
  • Complex architectural changes
  • Multi-file implementations
  • Maintaining context across related questions
• Can be managed using the link icon in the chat interface
• Supports automatic syncing with open editor files (can be enabled in settings)
• Files can be added/removed at any time during the conversation