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Prefix any command with ! to run it immediately and share the output with Ona Agent. The output becomes part of the session context, so the agent can reference it in responses. 
!git status
!npm test
!cat src/config.js
Terminal showing bash commands executed with the ! prefix, displaying command output inline in the session

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What happens when you use !

! is the fastest way to bring shell output into the conversation without asking the agent to decide which command to run. When you run a command this way:
  • the output becomes part of the chat context for the current session
  • the command result is shown directly in the session
  • you can immediately ask follow-up questions about the result

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When to use ! commands

Use ! when you want to share specific output with the agent:
  • Share errors for debugging: !npm test then ask “why is this failing?”
  • Provide context: !cat package.json before asking about dependencies
  • Verify state: !git branch before asking about branching strategy
For complex multi-step operations, code changes, or open-ended analysis, ask the agent directly and let it run commands as needed.

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Good fits vs bad fits

Good fits:
  • a single diagnostic command
  • a one-off log or file dump
  • a test run whose output you want the agent to interpret
Less good fits:
  • long investigative workflows
  • commands that mutate the repo in ways you want the agent to manage
  • repeated shell sequences better handled by the agent itself or by an Automation

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Tips

  • Use short, targeted commands so the output stays readable in chat.
  • Prefer !git status or !pytest -q over huge recursive dumps.
  • If the output is noisy, run a narrower command and ask a more specific follow-up question.