Usability feature: Add `shell` (or similar) as a dedicated slash(/) command
- Dominant language
- Shell
- Stars
- 11.2k
- Forks
- 1.9k
- Avg merge
- 14h 16m
- Merged PRs (30d)
- 6
Description
### Describe the feature or problem you'd like to solve
The CLI includes a special keyword `!` for executing shell commands, but this behavior is not discoverable or self documented. Unlike `/` commands, which are visible through autocomplete, `!` must be remembered by the user.
This creates a usability gap, especially for new or occasional users who may not know that shell execution exists or may forget how to access it.
### Proposed solution
Introduce a discoverable alternative such as a `/shell` command that behaves the same as `!`.
This command should appear in the `/` autocomplete list and clearly indicate that it allows shell execution. It could also include a short description or hint to explain its purpose.
### Example prompts or workflows
User types `/sh` and sees `/shell` in autocomplete
User selects `/shell` and enters shell execution mode, equivalent to using `!`
The CLI optionally shows a short hint such as “Run shell commands, same as `!`”
### Additional context
`/` commands are easy to find and use because they are discoverable through autocomplete. In contrast, the `!` keyword requires memorization, which makes it less accessible.
Adding a `/shell` command would improve discoverability, reduce the need to memorize special syntax, and create a more consistent user experience.
Contributor guide
Research direction
Start by locating the CLI entry point for the existing `!` shell keyword and the `/` command autocomplete implementation. Add a discoverable `/shell` command with a short shell-execution hint, preserving behavior equivalent to `!`; done means `/sh` suggests it and selecting it enters shell execution mode.
Written by the indexing model from the issue text.
Assessment
- Tech stack
- shell
- Domain
- cli
- Issue type
- Feature
- Difficulty
- 3/5
- Estimated time
- 1-2 days
- Activity status
- Quiet
- Clarity
- Mostly clear
- Newbie friendliness
- 55/100