Modes
How to choose between the Plan, Build, and Ask modes.
The assistant works in one of three modes, selected in the chat composer. Each mode is set up for a different task.
| Mode | Use for | Action |
|---|---|---|
| Plan (default) | Designing a pipeline | Gathers requirements and proposes a pipeline design before any YAML is written. |
| Build | Producing configuration | Generates or modifies the configuration, applying changes to the canvas and YAML. |
| Ask | Learning | Answers questions about OpenTelemetry without changing the configuration. |
Plan
Plan is the default. Use it when you know the outcome you want but not the exact components. Describe the goal, such as "collect nginx logs, parse them, and send them to a backend," and the assistant proposes a design and asks follow-up questions. The assistant's reasoning streams as it plans, then the plan is presented for your approval before it is handed to Build.
Build
Build turns a description or an instruction into configuration. Use it to generate a new pipeline, or to modify the canvas, such as adding a processor or changing an endpoint. Build applies its changes to the canvas and YAML for you to review and save.
Ask
Ask answers questions without changing the configuration. Use it to understand how a component works or to compare options.
Switch modes
Switch modes at any time in the composer. A common sequence is Plan to design, Build to generate, and Ask to explain.
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