> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.useshape.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Quickstart

> Install Shape, open a folder, and send one task.

Shape is a desktop app. You open a project folder, describe the work in chat, and review the edits before they stay.

## Install the app

1. Go to [useshape.org/download](https://useshape.org/download).
2. Run the installer.
3. Open Shape from the Start menu.

Shape needs Windows 10 or 11, 64-bit. If Windows SmartScreen appears, choose **More info**, then **Run anyway**.

## Sign in

Sign in with the account you use for chat and billing. You can still open files without signing in. You cannot send a message until you do.

If the browser window never comes back to the app, close it, sign out from **Help**, and sign in again. See [troubleshooting](/docs/help/troubleshooting).

## Open a folder

Use **Open folder** (or `Ctrl+K` then `Ctrl+O`) and pick the project you want to work on.

Shape stays in that folder until you open a different one. Chat, search, and Git all run against this folder. Open the repo root, not a nested package, unless you only want that package in context.

## Send a first task

Type in the composer at the bottom of chat. Start small so you can see how Shape edits files.

Examples that work well:

* “Rename the primary button on the home page to Get started.”
* “Explain `app/page.tsx` in a few sentences.”
* “Add a loading state to the settings save button.”

Press Enter to send. Shape reads the project, answers in the thread, and may edit files.

## Point it at a file

Type `@` and pick a file. That file is attached to the message. Use this when you already know which file matters, instead of hoping Shape finds it.

Type `/` to run a saved prompt. See [slash commands](/docs/customize/slash-commands).

## Review the diff

When Shape edits a file, the diff shows in the thread.

* Keep the change if it matches what you asked.
* Skip it if it is wrong or too broad.
* Ask a follow-up if it is close.

Nothing is committed for you. When you want a commit, see [Commits](/git/commits).

## Pick a mode

The composer has a mode switch. Use **Code** for edits. Use **Ask** when you only want an explanation. Use **Plan** for a larger change. Use **Review** when something is broken. Details are on [Agent](/docs/agent/overview).

## If chat will not send

Check the plan and remaining credits on [Billing](/dashboard/settings/billing). Free includes Auto only. Paid plans can pick a named model. See [Models](/docs/get-started/models).


This documentation is built and hosted on [Mintlify](https://mintlify.com), a developer documentation platform.