Cline

What it does

Open-source coding agent for VS Code (also JetBrains, a CLI and a desktop app). It edits files across your project, runs terminal commands and uses a browser, with Plan/Act modes and approval for every change unless you turn on auto-approve.

Who it's for

Developers who want an open-source agent that works with many model providers, including local models via Ollama or LM Studio.

How to set it up

1. Install 'Cline' from the VS Code Marketplace (or JetBrains Marketplace), or install the CLI:

   bashCopy

   npm i -g cline

2. Open Cline and choose a provider/model (Anthropic, OpenAI, Gemini, OpenRouter, Ollama, etc.), adding your API key.

3. Describe your task in Plan mode, then switch to Act mode and approve each edit or command.

Check the official docs for the latest steps.

Example prompts

Build a simple todo app in this folder using React and Vite.

Read the error in my terminal and fix it.

Add an MCP server to Cline that can query my Postgres database.

Demo