LatchLoop
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Task Editor

Task Text Editor Guide

Welcome to the Task Text Editor in LatchLoop! This editor is designed to help you write, update, and manage your task descriptions efficiently, with features tailored for AI-powered development workflows.

What is the Task Text Editor?

The Task Text Editor is where you write and edit the description for each task in LatchLoop. This description is the main source of instructions for the LatchLoop AI agent, and is used in all planning, building, and code generation actions. The editor supports rich markdown formatting, live preview, easy text selection, and advanced editing commands.

Key Features

1. Markdown Editing

  • Rich Formatting: Write your task description using markdown. You can use headings, bold, italics, lists, code blocks, links, and more.
  • Live Preview: The editor instantly shows your formatted text as you type, so you always know how your instructions will look.
  • Paste-Friendly: Paste content from anywhere—plain text, markdown, or even formatted content from other editors.

2. / Slash Commands

  • Quick Formatting: Type / at the start of a line to open a command menu. Use your keyboard to select formatting options like Heading 1, Heading 2, Bold, Italic, or Code Block.
  • Keyboard Navigation: Use arrow keys to navigate the menu and Enter to select a command. This makes formatting fast and distraction-free.

3. Selection-Based Editing

  • Contextual Toolbar: Select any text to reveal a floating toolbar with formatting options (bold, italic, headings, lists, code, links, etc.).
  • Easy Link Insertion: Highlight text and use the toolbar to add links, or use the link dialog for more control.

4. Templates

  • Apply Templates: Use the “Apply a template” button to quickly insert a pre-defined task structure. This is great for common task types or recurring patterns.
  • Save as Template: You can save your current task as a template for future use via the task options menu.

5. Keyboard Shortcuts

  • Efficient Workflow: Many actions can be triggered with keyboard shortcuts. Press Shift + ? or use the “Keyboard Shortcuts” option in the menu to see the full list.
  • Examples:
    • D — Focus description editor
    • / — Open file search (when file tray is open)
    • A — Toggle file tray (for including file contents)
    • 1-9 — Toggle file selection (when file tray is open)
    • Q, W, E, R — Project navigation, Plan, Build, Copy prompt

Best Practices for Editing Task Descriptions

Treat the Description as a Living Document

  • Iterate as Needed: You can update the task description at any time. As you clarify requirements, answer AI questions, or change priorities, simply edit the description.
  • AI Reads the Latest Version: LatchLoop always uses the current version of your description for its Plan and Build actions, as well as when you request changes or ask questions after a pull request is opened.
  • Clarify and Refine: If the AI asks for more details or you realize something is unclear, update the description directly. This ensures the next Plan or Build action has the best possible context.

Organize and Structure

  • Use Headings: Break your description into sections (e.g., “Requirements”, “Acceptance Criteria”, “Edge Cases”) for clarity.
  • Lists and Checkboxes: Use lists for steps, requirements, or todos. Checkboxes (- [ ]) can help track progress.
  • Code Blocks: Show code examples or expected output using triple backticks (```) for code blocks.

Respond to AI Feedback

  • Answer Questions: If the AI leaves questions or feedback in the sidebar, update your description to address them, then re-run Plan or Build.
  • Remove Irrelevant Details: As the task evolves, remove outdated or irrelevant information to keep the description focused.

Use the Plan Feature

  • Organize Before Building: Use LatchLoop’s “Plan” action to analyze your task. The AI will help you spot missing info, ambiguities, or suggest improvements.
  • Iterate: After planning, refine your description based on AI feedback, then proceed to Build.

Workflow Tips

  1. Start with a Clear Description: Write what you want the AI to do, using markdown for structure.
  2. Use Plan to Review: Click “Plan” to let the AI analyze your task. Address any feedback or questions.
  3. Update as Needed: Edit the description whenever requirements change or new details emerge.
  4. Build When Ready: Once your description is clear and complete, use “Build” to generate code or PRs.
  5. Continue Updating: Even after a PR is created, you can update the description to clarify further or request changes.

FAQ

Q: Can I edit the description after starting a task?
A: Yes! Edit the description at any time. LatchLoop always uses the latest version for its actions.

Q: What happens if I paste formatted content?
A: The editor will convert pasted content into markdown, preserving formatting where possible.

Q: How do I use / commands?
A: Type / at the start of a new line to open the command menu. Use arrow keys and Enter to select formatting.

Q: How do I see keyboard shortcuts?
A: Press Shift + ? or select “Keyboard Shortcuts” from the task options menu.

Summary

The Task Text Editor is your main interface for communicating with the LatchLoop AI. Use it to write, update, and clarify your task instructions. Take advantage of markdown, live preview, slash commands, templates, and keyboard shortcuts to work efficiently. Remember, your task description is a living document—keep it up to date for the best results!

If you have more questions, check the Keyboard Shortcuts dialog or reach out to support.

Related Docs

Tasks View
Keyboard Shortcuts View
Task Templates View