Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about SRS Writer


Installation & cost

Do I pay for SRS Writer?

  • The extension is free and open source (Apache-2.0). Any future paid plans will be announced in advance.
  • You need a GitHub Copilot subscription for AI (VS Code’s LM API is tied to Copilot).

Why Copilot only?

  • SRS Writer calls models via VS Code’s built-in LM API, which requires Copilot.
  • Benefit: no separate OpenAI/Anthropic keys or extra billing to manage.

Can I use it offline?

  • AI-powered actions require internet access.
  • Offline you can read/edit files manually, but SRS Writer chat/tools won’t run.

What versions/dependencies are required?

  • VS Code 1.102.0+.
  • Git installed (for repo/branch setup).
  • Keep GitHub Copilot signed in.

Usage & project management

How do I know which project is active?

  • Check the status bar: SRS: <project>.
  • Or open SRS Writer: Control Panel; the current project is shown there. image-20251211-215721.jpg

Can I edit files manually?

  • Yes—SRS.md/requirements.yaml are plain text.
  • After manual edits, run Sync Status Check in the Control Panel and, if needed, Force Sync Context to align memory/session with files.

Non-software projects?

  • Possible; adjust .templates/ to fit your domain/structure.

How do I share the SRS?

  • Share SRS.md directly (Markdown renders in VS Code/GitHub).
  • Export to PDF using any Markdown→PDF tool if needed.
  • No built-in publish command; use your repo or documentation platform.

Collaboration & multi-project

  • Use Git. Default working branch is wip; merge stable versions to main as needed.
  • Each project has its own folder; switch via the Control Panel.
  • Example flow:
    1. git pull to get latest
    2. Control Panel → switch to project
    3. Work via chat/manual edits
    4. git add . && git commit ... (on wip)
    5. Push and merge to main when ready

Can I handle multiple projects?

  • Yes. Each project has its own folder/session; switching clears chat context and enforces the wip branch.
  • Avoid manual folder renames—use Control Panel → Project Management → Rename Project.