Cursor's coding agents can autonomously complete multi-file refactors and iterate until tests pass. Effective usage requires planning before coding (using Plan Mode), managing context strategically, and customizing behavior through Rules (static instructions) and Skills (dynamic capabilities with hooks). Key workflows include test-driven development, parallel agent execution across worktrees, cloud agents for delegated tasks, and Debug Mode for complex bugs. Success depends on writing specific prompts, providing verifiable goals through tests and linters, and carefully reviewing AI-generated code.
Table of contents
# Understanding agent harnesses# Start with plans# Managing context# Extending the agent# Including images# Common workflows# Reviewing code# Running agents in parallel# Delegating to cloud agents# Debug Mode for tricky bugs# Developing your workflowSort: