Ask Copilot Chat: explain, fix, refactor
Goal. Use the chat panel to understand errors and improve code without leaving the editor.
Why does this code throw a KeyError, and how do I fix it? Then refactor this loop into a single pandas operation.
Open the Copilot Chat panel, paste or select the relevant code, and ask in plain language — in any language you like.
- 1Open the Chat panel from the Copilot icon. Select a block of code so the chat has context, then ask your question.
- 2Use it to explain an error, suggest a refactor, or answer 'why does this code work?' — the answer comes back in plain language with code you can apply.
- 3Iterate in the same conversation: ask a follow-up, request a simpler version, or have it add comments. Chat is great for the understanding that inline completions skip.
You'll see. A plain-language explanation of your error plus a cleaner, working rewrite you can drop straight into your file.
Cost. Chat, agents, code review, and CLI features DO consume AI Credits (unlike completions). The Free plan includes limited chat usage; Pro ($10/mo) adds $15/mo in GitHub AI Credits.
Takeaway. Chat is your in-editor tutor — it explains, debugs, and refactors, turning Copilot from autocomplete into a pair programmer.