AI Toolbox

AI Toolbox

Run reusable prompt workflows on selected code or text.

The AI Toolbox is a set of reusable prompt workflows for selected code or text. It is useful for small, focused actions that do not need a full autonomous agent workflow.

Built-in commands

Refact ships with default toolbox commands such as:

• /bugs — find likely bugs in the selected code.
• /comment — add explanatory comments.
• /explain — explain what the selected code does.
• /shorter — rewrite the selection more concisely.
• /summarize — summarize the selection in one paragraph.
• /typehints — add type hints where appropriate.
• /typos — fix typos, especially in strings and comments.

The exact list can vary because projects can add, remove, or override toolbox commands.

When to use it

Use the Toolbox when you already know the relevant selection and want a fast, repeatable transformation or explanation. Use chat or Agent mode when the task needs broader context, multiple files, shell commands, tests, or patch review.

Custom toolbox commands

Project toolbox commands live in .refact/toolbox_commands/*.yaml. A command defines its id, description, optional selection size limits, and the messages sent to the model.

schema_version: 1
id: simplify_api

description: Simplify selected API code
selection_needed: [1, 80]

messages:
  - role: user
    content: |
      @file %CURRENT_FILE%:%CURSOR_LINE%
      Simplify the selected code while preserving behavior:
      ```
      %CODE_SELECTION%
      ```

Useful variables include %CURRENT_FILE%, %CURSOR_LINE%, and %CODE_SELECTION%. Keep toolbox commands prompt-oriented. Use command-line integrations for external programs and service integrations for long-running processes.

Related pages

• AI Chat for broader Q&A and agent workflows.
• Context for local context and indexing behavior.
• Agent Tools for multi-step tool use.