Introduction to Codex

Artificial intelligence is profoundly changing the software development industry, and OpenAI’s Codex is a standout tool in this transformation. Codex is an AI assistant optimized for programming tasks, based on the GPT series models. Unlike traditional code completion tools, Codex can understand the complete context of a project and autonomously handle the entire workflow from requirement analysis to code writing and testing. It can answer technical questions, modify files directly, run commands, and submit code, truly becoming a smart partner for developers.

Codex’s core capabilities are reflected in three aspects: deep understanding, autonomous execution, and continuous learning. It can grasp the overall architecture and business logic of a project rather than just handling isolated code snippets. It can call toolchains to complete compilation, testing, and deployment operations. Moreover, it continuously optimizes the quality of generated code through reinforcement learning techniques. Statistics show that developers using Codex experience an average productivity increase of 55% and a 37% improvement in code quality scores.

From a market positioning perspective, Codex fundamentally differs from GitHub Copilot. Copilot is a real-time code completion tool that provides suggestions as you type, leaving the decision to accept or reject those suggestions to the developer. In contrast, Codex acts as an autonomous AI agent that completes tasks based on your described requirements, functioning more like an independent AI engineer. This difference in positioning dictates their usage scenarios: use Copilot for daily coding assistance and Codex for complex project development.

Four Ways to Use Codex

Codex offers four usage methods: desktop application, web interface, IDE plugin, and command line, catering to different development scenarios and user preferences. The choice of method depends on your specific needs and technology stack.

Desktop Application

The desktop application is the most comprehensive choice. After installation, you can access a complete graphical interface without any configuration. The interface is clean and intuitive, with task management on the left, code editing in the center, and execution logs at the bottom. Beginners can dive right in without fiddling with the command line or configuring environment variables. The desktop application also supports local file access, project management, and plugin extensions, making it the preferred entry point for in-depth use of Codex.

Web Interface

The web interface is suitable for lightweight scenarios. You can access it directly at codex.openai.com or through the ChatGPT interface, making it ideal for quickly validating ideas, learning new technology stacks, or working on temporary devices. However, its functionality is relatively simplified, making it less suitable for large project development. The advantage is that it is available anywhere with a browser and internet connection.

VS Code Plugin

The VS Code plugin is designed for developers accustomed to using IDEs. After searching for “Codex” in the VS Code plugin marketplace and installing it, Codex is embedded directly into the editor, allowing you to interact, ask questions, and request code modifications directly within the code editing interface. This seamless integration makes the AI assistant a natural extension of the development workflow without interrupting coding flow.

Command Line Version

The command line version is for users seeking maximum flexibility. By installing the codex command via npm, you can execute it in any directory and directly manipulate local files. It supports scripting and automation, making it suitable for integration into CI/CD processes. Technical teams can write scripts to batch process code reviews, test generation, and other repetitive tasks.

Desktop Application Installation Guide

The installation process for the desktop application is very user-friendly, even for programming novices. First, visit the Codex download page on the OpenAI website and select the installation package for your operating system. Windows users should download the exe installer, macOS users the dmg image, and Linux users can choose between AppImage or deb packages.

After downloading, run the installer and follow the step-by-step prompts. You can choose the default installation path or a custom directory, but it’s recommended to use a pure English path to avoid potential encoding issues. Upon first launch, you will need to log in with your OpenAI account; if you don’t have one, you can register for free. After logging in, the interface will guide you through the initial configuration, including selecting the default working directory and setting the theme style.

Once installed, the interface layout is clear: the top features a menu bar and toolbar, the left side displays the project list and file browser, the center is the main workspace, the right side is the AI chat window, and the bottom shows execution logs and terminal output. This layout aligns with IDE usage habits, allowing developers to quickly find various functions.

Plugin Installation and Configuration

The plugin system of Codex is a significant source of its powerful capabilities. Through plugins, Codex can connect to various external applications and services, extending its AI capabilities to office work, design, data analysis, and more. The plugin marketplace offers over 120 plugins covering browser extensions, email services, design tools, data visualization, and more.

Installing plugins is straightforward. Open the plugin marketplace in the Codex interface, browse or search for the plugins you need, and click install. Some plugins may require additional authorization steps, such as connecting your Google or GitHub account. The authorization process uses the OAuth standard, ensuring security, and you can revoke permissions at any time in the settings.

Some recommended plugins include: the Chrome plugin for direct use of Codex in your browser; the Gmail plugin for reading and writing emails and automatically categorizing replies; the Canva plugin for design work; and the Realtime plugin for generating video animations. These plugins significantly expand Codex’s application boundaries, making it a truly versatile assistant.

Configuration Guide for Domestic Users

One of the main concerns for domestic users is whether Codex can be used normally in China. Due to differences in network environments, direct connections to OpenAI servers may face difficulties. Fortunately, there are several solutions to address this issue, allowing domestic users to use Codex smoothly.

The most recommended method is to use third-party API proxy services. These services deploy servers overseas, connecting to OpenAI’s API while providing domestic acceleration nodes, significantly reducing latency. Common third-party platforms include OpenRouter, API2D, and OpenAI-Proxy. After registering, you will receive an API Key, which can be configured in Codex for use. This method offers good stability and speed, making it the first choice for domestic users.

Configuring the third-party API requires using the CCSwitch tool, a utility specifically designed for managing API configurations. After installing CCSwitch, you can add a new vendor configuration, filling in the API address and API Key provided by the third-party platform. The API address is usually in the format https://api.xxx.com/v1, and the API Key is a string starting with sk-. Once configured, select the option to log in using the API key in Codex settings to switch to the third-party service.

Another solution is to use domestic large model APIs. Many domestic AI companies provide APIs compatible with OpenAI, requiring only the Base URL to be replaced with the address of the domestic service provider. Although the model capabilities may differ from OpenAI, they are sufficient for daily programming assistance. Common choices include Zhipu GLM, Kimi from the Dark Side of the Moon, and Baidu Wenxin.

CCSwitch Configuration Details

CCSwitch is an essential tool for domestic users using Codex, as it manages multiple API configurations, allowing users to switch flexibly between different services. Below is a detailed introduction to the configuration steps.

Step 1: Download and Install CCSwitch

Visit the official CCSwitch download page to obtain the installation package for your operating system. The installation process is similar to other desktop applications, and you can complete it by clicking through the prompts.

Step 2: Open CCSwitch and Access Settings

Open CCSwitch and navigate to the settings interface. The left side displays the list of configured APIs, while the right side shows the configuration details panel. Click the add button in the upper right corner to start a new configuration.

Step 3: Select Vendor Type

CCSwitch supports various vendor types; select OpenAI as the base type. Although you will be using a third-party service, the API format is compatible, so choose OpenAI.

Step 4: Fill in Configuration Information

You can customize the vendor name, such as “My API Proxy.” Fill in the API address provided by the third-party platform, ensuring not to add a trailing slash. Enter the API Key you created on the third-party platform, which usually starts with a sk- followed by a long string.

Step 5: Save and Enable

After completing the configuration, select it from the left list and click the enable button. CCSwitch will automatically modify Codex’s configuration file, allowing Codex to access AI services through the new API address.

Step 6: Restart Codex to Verify Configuration

Close and reopen Codex, checking if “logged in via API key” appears in the lower left corner, indicating that the third-party API has been successfully configured. If it still shows the original login method, the configuration may not have taken effect, and you should check if the API address and Key are correct.

Recommendations for Choosing Third-Party Platforms

When selecting a suitable third-party API platform, multiple factors should be considered: stability, speed, pricing, and customer support. Below is an analysis of the characteristics of several commonly used platforms.

OpenRouter is a well-known international API aggregation platform that integrates interfaces from multiple AI service providers. It offers a variety of model choices, including Claude and GPT-4, with transparent pricing based on usage. Its advantages include high stability and a rich selection of models; however, its servers are located overseas, leading to potentially unstable access speeds in China, and some platforms may require credit card payments.

API2D is a domestic OpenAI API proxy with servers deployed in China, ensuring fast access speeds. It provides models like GPT-3.5 and GPT-4 at relatively reasonable prices. Its advantages include fast speeds, convenient payments, and support for Alipay; however, model version updates may be slightly slower.

For users with limited budgets, consider platforms with generous free quotas. Some platforms offer daily free call limits, suitable for learning and testing. However, be cautious of the free quota limits to avoid interruptions during formal project use.

Overall, if your budget allows and you prioritize stability, OpenRouter is recommended; if you seek fast domestic access and convenient payments, domestic proxies like API2D are better options. Regardless of the platform chosen, remember to regularly check usage to avoid unexpected overage fees.

Three Basic Settings to Know

Before starting to use Codex, there are three basic settings you must understand. Mastering these settings will not only help you use Codex better but also aid in understanding other AI programming tools, as their underlying logic is similar.

1. Choosing the Dialogue Mode

Codex provides two dialogue modes: single conversation and project mode. Single conversation is suitable for daily Q&A and simple tasks, such as asking the AI to explain a piece of code, generate a function, or translate comments. Each dialogue is independent and does not remember previous contexts. Project mode is more suitable for long-term iterative development tasks, such as developing a website or application. Codex will create a separate workspace for each project, saving all code, documents, and contextual information for easier subsequent development.

2. Permission Levels

Codex can directly modify files and execute commands, which is both an advantage and a risk. Therefore, Codex has designed three permission levels: default permission, auto-review, and full access. Beginners are advised to start with default permission, which prompts confirmation for sensitive file operations; once proficient, you can enable auto-review mode, where routine operations are executed automatically, and only sensitive operations prompt for confirmation; full access allows Codex to execute any operation and should only be enabled when you fully trust the tasks and code to avoid accidental deletion or modification of important files.

3. Token Consumption Limits

Unlike some AI assistants that allow unlimited use with a membership, Codex has usage limits. It offers two types of cycle limits: five-hour limits and weekly limits, with specific numbers depending on your subscription plan. In this setting, you can choose the model and capability level to use. Stronger models are smarter and faster but consume tokens more quickly. For general tasks, the default settings are sufficient.

Strategies for Choosing Dialogue Modes

Understanding when to use single conversation and when to use project mode is key to using Codex efficiently. The design philosophies of these two modes differ, as do their applicable scenarios.

Single conversation is suitable for fragmented programming tasks. For example, if you encounter an error during development and are unsure of the cause, you can quickly open a single conversation with Codex, paste the error message, and ask for a solution. Similarly, if you need to generate a regular expression, format a JSON data piece, or query the usage of an API, these one-off tasks are best handled in single conversation mode. Each dialogue starts from scratch, without mixing in other project contexts, making the information more focused.

Project mode is suitable for systematic development work. Suppose you want to develop a blog website, from choosing the tech stack, setting up the project structure, coding each functional module, to deployment; this entire process may take days or even weeks. In this case, the advantages of project mode become apparent: Codex will remember the project’s architectural design, technology selection, and coding standards, eliminating the need to repeatedly explain the background during subsequent development. Codex will also automatically save records of each conversation, facilitating review and retrospection.

A practical tip is to use multiple windows for independent tasks. In project mode, each window accumulates context, and the longer the dialogue, the more context it gathers, which may affect the accuracy of subsequent responses. If you are simultaneously developing multiple independent features, such as modifying a page’s style and configuring a new API endpoint, you can open two windows to handle each task separately, ensuring that each window’s context is more precise and Codex can focus better on each task.

Best Practices for Permission Management

Permission management is one of the most easily overlooked yet crucial aspects of using Codex. Codex’s core ability is to directly operate files and run commands, meaning that improper permission settings could lead to unexpected operations.

Default permission is the safest choice. In this mode, Codex can read files and write code, but requires manual confirmation for operations like deleting files or running shell commands. A dialog box will pop up before each sensitive operation, showing the specific command Codex plans to execute, allowing you to review and decide whether to allow it. This mode provides users with ample control and is suitable for users at any stage.

Auto-review mode strikes a balance between security and convenience. Once enabled, common code editing and file creation operations are executed automatically without individual confirmation. Only high-risk operations like deleting files, modifying system configurations, or executing dangerous commands will prompt for confirmation. This mode is suitable for advanced users who are already familiar with the project code and are confident that Codex will not perform abnormal operations. Caution should still be exercised, especially when executing code from the internet or dealing with unfamiliar codebases.

Full access should be used with caution. In this mode, Codex has complete operating system permissions and can execute any command. While Codex usually works according to your instructions, bugs in the code, network issues, or misunderstandings can lead to unintended consequences. It is recommended to only use full access in the following situations: the codebase is fully controllable, there are no important files, and trusted third-party packages are used. It is strongly discouraged to use it in important projects or formal environments.

Selected Practical Plugins

The Codex plugin marketplace is the essence of its ecosystem. With over 120 plugins covering office work, design, programming, investment, and academia, Codex’s capabilities far exceed those of a simple programming assistant. Below are some selected practical plugins, detailing their usage methods and application scenarios.

1. Remotion for Video Effects

Remotion is a powerful tool for creating video effects within Codex. Traditional video effect creation requires mastering professional software like After Effects or Premiere, along with learning animation principles and editing skills, which can be quite challenging. Using the Remotion plugin, you only need to describe the desired effect in code, and Codex will generate professional-level video animations for you.

The basic process of using Remotion is: first, install the Remotion plugin in Codex, then send your request description. For example, you can upload a screenshot from a video and tell Codex, “Help me replicate the motion style of this video,” and Codex will analyze the motion patterns of the original video and re-implement that effect in code. The generated code can be further adjusted for parameters like color, speed, and amplitude until you are satisfied.

Remotion’s capabilities go beyond replication. Given a creative description, it can independently create animations. For instance, if you ask it to create a solar system planet science animation, Codex will create the planetary orbits, set rotations and translations, add lighting effects, and configure subtitles. Previously, such animations required collaboration between animators and editors; now one person can complete the task.

The generated videos can be exported in various formats, including MP4 and WebM. If higher quality is needed, you can choose the 4K rendering option. The code generated by Remotion is also reusable; next time you want to create a similar style, you can simply modify the parameters, saving time on re-creation.

2. Design Plugin Suite

Codex’s design plugins allow non-designers to create professional-level visual works. Among them, the Canva plugin and image generation plugin are the most practical.

The Canva plugin connects Codex with the Canva design platform. Canva offers thousands of professionally designed templates covering scenarios like posters, PPTs, and social media images. By calling Canva through Codex, you can describe your needs in natural language, and the AI will help you choose suitable templates, fill in content, and adjust layouts, ultimately generating ready-to-use design works. For example, you can upload a team photo and tell Codex, “Create a year-end summary PPT cover using this photo as the background and the text ‘Chong Chong Chong E-commerce Team’,” and Codex will call Canva to generate a complete design scheme.

The image generation plugin, based on deep learning models, can generate images from textual descriptions. For example, inputting “a cat in a spacesuit fishing on the moon” will yield a creative image in seconds. This plugin has a wide range of uses: generating article illustrations, creating PPT graphics, and crafting social media content. The generated images can be used commercially without worrying about copyright issues.

In practical work, these design plugins can significantly enhance efficiency. Previously, creating a PPT could take hours to find materials and layout; now, just tell Codex your needs, and you can receive multiple design options in minutes. Designers can quickly generate drafts and then refine them, boosting efficiency several times.

3. Data Analysis Plugins

Codex’s data analysis capabilities are also powerful with the support of plugins. Whether handling financial data, analyzing operational reports, or conducting market research, Codex can provide a one-stop solution from data cleaning to visualization.

When processing large amounts of data, traditional AI tools often miss data or fail to clean it thoroughly. Codex, with its stronger contextual understanding and task decomposition abilities, can accurately identify various entries in the data and categorize and organize them according to your requirements. After processing, Codex will generate interactive data dashboards, allowing you to click on charts to view detailed data, filter, and search.

A typical application scenario is personal financial analysis. By importing years of bank transaction data, Alipay, and WeChat bills into Codex, you can have it analyze your spending structure. Codex will automatically identify merchant names, determine spending types (dining, shopping, transportation, etc.), and summarize statistics by time dimension, ultimately generating a visual report. You can clearly see where your money is going, the monthly spending trends, and which categories have the highest proportions. Similar approaches can also be applied to operational data analysis, sales report analysis, and various other scenarios.

4. Email and Automation Plugins

The Gmail plugin turns Codex into your email assistant. For users handling a large volume of emails daily, this plugin can significantly improve efficiency. Codex can read email content, automatically categorize and organize it, reply based on rules, and even help you compose emails.

A typical automation workflow is resume screening. Suppose you receive dozens of job application emails daily; Codex can automatically read all emails with resume attachments, extract resume content, evaluate matching against job requirements, and provide recommendations. You only need to browse through the most matched candidates selected by Codex to decide whether to schedule interviews. This process transforms from reading each email individually to quickly browsing, enhancing efficiency several times.

Codex’s automation task feature further extends the capabilities of plugins. You can create an automated task, setting execution cycles and trigger conditions. For example, you can set it to automatically execute the resume screening task at 10 AM every morning, and Codex will proactively push the screening results to your interface without manual operation. Multiple automation tasks can run simultaneously, and you can view the status of all tasks in the task management interface, enabling you to start or stop any task at any time.

Complete Web Coding Process

Web coding is one of the most powerful application scenarios for Codex. Developing a website using traditional methods requires designing frontend pages, backend logic, database structures, and handling deployment and maintenance, which can be quite challenging. Codex simplifies this process: you describe your needs, and the AI implements them. Below, we detail the practical process through a complete project for a 3D house viewing website.

1. Project Initialization and Planning

Before starting a new project, first create a project folder locally. It is advisable to use English for the folder name to avoid potential encoding issues with Chinese paths. For example, if the project is called “3D Viewing”, create a folder named “3d-house-viewing”.

Next, link this folder in Codex. Open Codex’s project panel, click the folder icon, and select the directory you just created. This way, Codex knows that all operations will be conducted within this directory, preventing accidental modifications to other files. This linking is unidirectional; Codex will only read and write the contents of this folder, essentially providing a safety isolation mechanism.

For users unfamiliar with code, it is recommended to create an AGENTS.md file within the project folder. This file serves as a command set for Codex, defining project specifications and constraints. For instance, you can write: “Explain what you are going to do before each code modification”, “Do not delete files, only add and modify”, or “Explain technical terms in a language I can understand”. Codex will automatically read AGENTS.md as context, ensuring that subsequent operations align with your expectations. This file does not need to be manually written; you can let Codex generate it based on your needs.

2. Writing the Requirement Document

The requirement document (PRD) is the starting point of the project. A common mistake is to directly say, “Help me build a website,” and then expect Codex to deliver a perfect result. In reality, the vaguer the requirements, the more Codex has to guess your intentions, often leading to unsatisfactory results. Taking the time to clarify your requirements is the first step to project success.

A basic requirement document should include the following content: who the target users are, what the core functionalities are, what the page structure looks like, what the interaction processes are, and what the technology stack requirements are. These details do not need to be overly formal; they just need to clearly express your ideas.

In practice, you can directly ask Codex to help you generate a requirement document. You only need to describe the product concept, such as, “I want to create a 3D house viewing website where users can select properties on a map, view indoor panoramic images, filter by decoration style, and save favorite houses.” Codex will output a complete requirement document based on your description, including a list of functions, page planning, and technical solutions. If there are unsatisfactory parts, you can modify them directly in the dialogue box until the document meets your expectations.

The more detailed the requirement document, the smoother the subsequent development will be. Codex will generate code based on the document; if there are missing functionalities in the document, you may need to add them during development; if the document is inaccurately described, the code may need to be redone. Therefore, take the requirement document seriously; the time invested here will pay off during subsequent development.

3. Using Planning Mode

For complex projects, it is advisable to enable Codex’s planning mode. Planning mode serves as a thinking phase before Codex formally begins work; it will break down the entire task into detailed execution steps, presenting them for your review before starting implementation.

Why is this phase necessary? Because generating code with Codex is a continuous process, once it starts, it may execute many steps in succession. If the direction is wrong, a lot of time can be wasted. During the planning phase, you can check whether Codex understands your desired functionalities correctly, whether there are any omissions in the breakdown of tasks, and whether the overall plan is reasonable. If you notice any issues, you can correct them at this stage to avoid unnecessary work later.

The plan provided in planning mode typically includes several parts: a task breakdown list, execution order, and the estimated workload for each task. You should focus on two points: whether Codex understands the functionalities you want and whether there are any omissions or misunderstandings; and whether the overall plan aligns with technical norms and lacks any unreasonable arrangements. If the plan seems reasonable, click continue to let it execute; if there are issues, share your concerns or corrective suggestions with Codex.

Using planning mode has an added benefit: it gives you a clear expectation of project progress. Knowing what Codex will do next, how many steps the entire project is divided into, and which stage you are currently in provides transparency, giving you more control over the project and making it easier to intervene and adjust direction when necessary.

4. Code Writing and Iterative Optimization

Once the plan is confirmed, Codex begins to write code formally. During this process, Codex will work continuously for a period, executing dozens of steps. You can observe its operations and understand how it breaks down tasks and implements functionalities. If you encounter any unclear areas, you can ask questions at any time, and Codex will explain its thought process in a way you can understand.

The code generated by Codex is usually not perfect on the first try; the initial version is often a basic version that works but may not be aesthetically pleasing or complete. Iterative optimization is needed afterward. At this point, Codex’s built-in browser annotation feature is particularly useful. When you see something you dislike in the preview window, you can click on that area, and Codex will highlight the corresponding code section. You can then describe the desired modification, such as “change the hollow icon to a solid one” or “change the color scheme from blue to warm yellow.” This method is much more intuitive than describing code issues abstractly.

During the iteration process, make good use of the Git archiving feature. Git is a tool programmers use to manage code versions, akin to a save system in games. Before making significant changes, let Codex execute a Git archive command, so if things go wrong later, you can always revert to the archive point. Archiving is simple; just tell Codex, “Save the current changes as Git version, with the message XXX.” If you need to revert, say, “Help me revert to version XXX,” and it will execute the rollback operation. Mastering these two techniques allows even non-programmers to safely iterate on code.

5. API Integration and Function Expansion

Once the basic functionalities are completed, you may need to integrate external APIs to expand capabilities. For instance, the 3D house viewing website may require map functionality, with map data sourced from Gaode Map or Baidu Map, necessitating an API key from the map platform.

Integrating APIs may sound technical to beginners, but you can simply ask Codex to guide you through the process. Tell Codex you want to integrate a specific API, such as “I want to integrate the Gaode Map API,” and Codex will guide you step by step through the application process. Applying for an API typically involves registering a developer account, creating an application, and obtaining a key. Once you have the key, provide it to Codex, and it will help you complete the configuration. Throughout this process, you only need to follow Codex’s instructions without needing to understand the underlying technical details.

In addition to map APIs, many commonly used APIs can be integrated: weather query APIs for displaying the weather at the property location; traffic APIs for showing surrounding traffic conditions; educational APIs for marking school district information, etc. Each API integration process is similar: apply for a key, obtain the API documentation, and let Codex assist you with the integration. APIs are crucial for extending website functionalities, and effectively utilizing them can elevate your project from a display type to a practical type.

6. Website Deployment and Go Live

After local development is completed, the website is only accessible to you. To allow more people to see your work, you need to deploy it to a cloud server. This process involves several technical steps: connecting to a cloud database, uploading code to GitHub, and publishing the website through a deployment platform. For beginners, these concepts may be unfamiliar, but Codex can guide you through the entire operation.

Step 1: Prepare the Cloud Database

During local development, data is stored locally, but after deployment, a cloud database is needed for support. Codex recommends using Supabase, a free and user-friendly cloud database option. After registering with Supabase, create a new project to obtain the connection link and key. In Codex, connect to Supabase using the MCP feature, and Codex will automatically help you initialize the database table structure. Once completed, you can see the created database in the Supabase backend.

Step 2: Upload Code to GitHub

GitHub is a code hosting platform, similar to a cloud USB drive. Create a new repository on GitHub and push your local code to it. If the push fails, it may be due to not configuring the SSH key, which is a security mechanism of GitHub. Codex will teach you how to generate an SSH key and add it to your GitHub account, and once configured, you can push successfully.

Step 3: Deploy the Website via Vercel

Vercel is a platform focused on frontend deployment, supporting direct import of code from GitHub repositories for automatic deployment. After registering with Vercel, choose “Import from GitHub repository,” select your project, and click deploy. A few minutes later, your website will be live. Vercel will provide you with a URL to share with others so they can view your work. Throughout the deployment process, Codex will guide you step by step; you only need to click a few buttons.

Recommended Essential Skills

In addition to plugins, Codex also has a skill (Skill) system. Skills are preset workflow templates and can be understood as Codex’s specialized toolset. Unlike plugins, skills are more focused on extending Codex’s internal functionalities. Below are some recommended essential skills.

1. Skill Inspector for Security Checks

Skill Inspector is Codex’s security detection tool. As the skill ecosystem develops, various skills from different sources have emerged, with varying quality. Installing unknown skills may pose security risks, as the skill code may contain malicious operations. The role of Skill Inspector is to scan the skills you have installed and check for suspicious behaviors.

Using it is straightforward: after installing Skill Inspector, have it check the skills you have installed. It will analyze the code and behaviors of each skill, marking potential risk points. If issues are found, it will provide specific risk descriptions and handling suggestions. Regularly using Skill Inspector to scan can effectively reduce security risks when using third-party skills.

Especially for skills obtained from online forums or social media, always use Skill Inspector for detection before installation. Even skills recommended by friends should be checked, as friends may have also obtained them from third parties and cannot guarantee safety. Safety is paramount, so prevention is key.

2. Find Skill for Skill Search

Find Skill is Codex’s skill search engine. As the number of skills increases, finding the required skills becomes increasingly difficult. Find Skill allows you to quickly locate matching skills by describing your needs in natural language.

For example, if you want to write a script, simply ask Find Skill, “What skills can help me write a short play?” It will search all relevant skills and return a list of recommendations and usage instructions. You can select suitable skills from this list, and Codex will automatically install and activate them. This feature greatly lowers the barrier to skill discovery; you don’t need to remember skill names; just describe your needs to find solutions.

The search results from Find Skill are sorted by relevance, with the top few being the most related. If the search results are not ideal, try rephrasing your description or using more specific keywords. Once you find a satisfactory skill, click install to use it.

3. Other Recommended Skills

In addition to the two essential skills mentioned above, several practical skills are worth installing. The code review skill can automatically check for code quality issues and provide optimization suggestions; the documentation generation skill can automatically generate technical documentation based on code comments; the test generation skill can automatically write unit test cases for projects; and the API testing skill can simulate API calls to verify functionality correctness.

These skills cover common scenarios in software development, and installing them can significantly enhance development efficiency. It is recommended to install them as needed, rather than installing too many at once. After installation, you can view the list of installed skills in the skill management interface and uninstall any unnecessary skills to keep the system clean.

Efficiency Improvement Tips

After mastering the basic operations of Codex, some advanced tips can help you further enhance efficiency. These tips may seem simple, but using them effectively can yield significant results.

1. Context Management Strategies

Codex’s context capacity is limited; the longer the dialogue, the more it consumes. When the context is nearing full capacity, Codex may “forget” previously discussed details. To maintain response quality, managing context effectively is essential.

First, adhere to the principle of task relevance. Focus on one task per window. For instance, if you are developing a website and configuring email automation simultaneously, handle them in two separate windows. This way, each window’s context remains relevant, and Codex can process each task more accurately.

Second, actively compress the context. After a dialogue has continued for a while, you can input a slash command to select the “compress” function. Codex will condense previous dialogue content into a summary, retaining key information and freeing up context space. After compression, you can continue with the previous task, and Codex will refer to the summary for context.

Third, promptly open new windows. If a task has reached a phase goal, you can close the current window and continue the subsequent work in a new window. New windows come without historical baggage, ensuring cleaner context and better response quality.

2. Key Points for Prompt Engineering

The quality of Codex’s output largely depends on the prompts you provide. Good prompts can guide Codex to give accurate and useful responses, while vague prompts may lead to irrelevant answers.

The core principle of prompts is specificity. The more specific your description, the better Codex can understand your needs. For instance, instead of saying, “Help me optimize this website,” say, “The first screen loading time of this website is 5 seconds; please help me optimize it to under 2 seconds, focusing on image compression and code splitting.”

Providing contextual information is crucial. If you want Codex’s responses to adhere to a specific style or standard, mention that in your prompts. For example, “Rewrite this code using Vue3’s Composition API,” “Follow Google JavaScript coding standards,” or “Use the naming conventions from my project.”

Break down complex tasks. Divide a complex task into multiple steps, providing clear instructions for each step. For example, instead of saying, “Help me create a complete user system,” say, “Step 1: Help me design the user data model; Step 2: Implement the registration and login API; Step 3: Add JWT authentication; Step 4: Write unit tests.” This structured approach to prompts makes Codex’s output more organized.

3. Project Structure Norms

Codex excels at handling structured projects. Establishing a structured norm at the project’s outset will facilitate smoother development later.

First, establish a clear directory structure. Create distinct directory classifications for different types of files: source code in the src directory, static resources in the assets directory, configuration files in the config directory, and test files in the tests directory. A clear directory structure helps Codex understand the project layout.

Second, maintain a coding standard document. In AGENTS.md, define the project’s coding standards, including naming conventions, code formatting, and submission norms. For example, “Use camelCase for variable names,” “Component file names should start with uppercase letters,” and “Every commit should clearly state what has changed.” Codex will follow these standards when generating code, ensuring consistency in the project’s style.

Third, document maintenance is crucial. Encourage Codex to update documentation concurrently during development. When adding new functionalities, instruct it to update the README and API documentation as well. Good documentation is the foundation for team collaboration and ensures future maintainability.

Codex vs Other AI Programming Tools

There are several AI programming tools available in the market besides Codex. GitHub Copilot, Cursor, Windsurf, and Cline are all popular choices. Understanding the characteristics of each tool can help you choose the most suitable one based on your scenario.

1. Horizontal Comparison Overview

Below is a comparison of mainstream AI programming tools across several key dimensions.

2. Comparison Table of Mainstream AI Programming Tools

3. How to Choose the Right Tool

Choosing an AI programming tool requires considering your needs and usage scenarios. Here are some typical recommendations:

If you have complex project development needs, such as building a complete website or application, Codex is recommended. It can autonomously handle the entire process from design to deployment, especially suitable for scenarios where you want AI to take on more work.

If you are a programming novice primarily needing code completion and basic assistance, GitHub Copilot is a good choice. It integrates into VS Code, providing real-time suggestions, and is easy to use, making it suitable for the learning phase.

If your workflow revolves around an IDE and you want deep integration of AI into the development environment, Cursor or Windsurf may be more suitable. They are specialized AI IDEs that optimize the code editing experience.

If you are a student or have a limited budget, Windsurf’s free version offers sufficient functionality to start experiencing AI coding.

Frequently Asked Questions

During the use of Codex, novices often encounter various issues. Below is a compilation of common questions and solutions to help you quickly resolve usage barriers.

1. Configuration and Connection Issues

Q: What should I do if Codex shows a connection failure?

A: First, check if your network connection is normal, especially for domestic users who may be using a proxy; ensure the proxy settings are correct. Next, check if the API configuration is effective by looking at the lower left corner of Codex to see if it shows “logged in via API key.” If the issue persists, try restarting Codex or reconfiguring the API.

Q: How to resolve unusually fast token consumption?

A: Confirm whether you have selected a model that is too powerful. You can check the currently used model in the settings and try switching to a lighter version. Also, check for any looping code that may cause rapid token consumption. Effectively using the context compression feature can also help control consumption.

Q: What to do if the third-party API is slow?

A: Choose a server node closer to you, or try other API service providers. Some service providers offer domestic acceleration lines that can significantly reduce latency. Additionally, optimizing your prompts and reducing unnecessary context information can also improve response speed.

2. Code Quality Issues

Q: What should I do if the code generated by Codex has bugs?

A: This is a normal occurrence; AI-generated code requires manual review and testing. If you find a bug, simply tell Codex, “This code throws an error under XX circumstances; please fix it,” and Codex can usually quickly locate and resolve the issue. It is advisable to establish a comprehensive testing process to thoroughly validate code quality before deployment.

Q: How to handle code that does not conform to project standards?

A: Clearly define project standards in AGENTS.md, including naming rules, code style, directory structure, etc. Ensure that Codex reads this file before generating code, and it will follow the standards. If a particular generation still does not conform to standards, point out the specific issues for Codex to correct.

Q: Is the code safe, and is there a risk of injection?

A: AI-generated code may contain security vulnerabilities, especially when dealing with user input handling and database operations. It is recommended to conduct security reviews of AI-generated code, particularly focusing on permission controls, input validation, and SQL injection prevention. For high-security requirements, consider using professional security tools for scanning.

3. Usage Habit Issues

Q: What should I do if Codex always misunderstands my intentions?

A: Try to describe your needs more specifically and provide more contextual information. Use examples to illustrate the effects you want to achieve rather than relying solely on abstract language. If there are continuous misunderstandings, the requirements may be unclear; try breaking them down into smaller steps for gradual implementation.

Q: What to do if the quality of Codex’s responses declines after long conversations?

A: This is a normal phenomenon due to context accumulation. Solutions include: using the compression function to streamline context; opening a new window to continue tasks; or explicitly telling Codex, “Forget the previous XX content and focus on the current issue.” Keeping conversations concise and focused is key to maintaining response quality.

Q: How can I help Codex better understand my project?

A: Enhance the AGENTS.md file by detailing the project architecture, technology stack, and coding standards. You can also proactively share key information about the project, such as “Our frontend uses Vue3, the backend uses Node.js, and the database is PostgreSQL.” The more Codex understands, the more accurate its outputs will be.