> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.codemate.ai/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.codemate.ai/cora/modes.md).

# Modes

Selecting the right mode matters. Ask mode never modifies files. Review mode never writes new code. Using the wrong mode for a task won't break anything, but it produces worse output than using the right one.

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### The five modes

| Mode                                | What it does                                                            |
| ----------------------------------- | ----------------------------------------------------------------------- |
| [**Auto**](/cora/modes/auto.md)     | Orchestrates the other modes picks and sequences them based on the task |
| [**Plan**](/cora/modes/plan.md)     | Produces architecture documents, stack decisions, and task breakdowns   |
| [**Ask**](/cora/modes/ask.md)       | Answers questions about the codebase and explains how things work       |
| [**Code**](/cora/modes/code.md)     | Writes, modifies, and refactors code                                    |
| [**Review**](/cora/modes/review.md) | Audits changes for correctness, security, and consistency               |

***

### Choosing a mode

**Auto** is the right default for most tasks. Use a specific mode when you know exactly what kind of output you want a read-only explanation, a plan with no code yet, or a targeted review of a specific file.

Use **Plan** when you're starting something large and want to review the approach before any files are touched. Use **Ask** when you want to understand something without risking any changes. Use **Code** when you have a clear, scoped task and want direct execution. Use **Review** after any change to a security-sensitive area.