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  4. Slash commands

Slash commands

On this page
  • Command types
  • Hooks
  • Steering files
  • How it works
  • Adding hooks
  • Adding steering files
  • Using slash commands
  • Best practices

Slash commands let you run hooks and pull in steering files on demand, directly from the chat. Type / in the chat input to see available commands and execute them instantly.

Command types

Hooks

Hooks with manual triggers appear in the slash command menu. When you select a hook, Kiro executes it immediately in your current session. Here are some examples of hooks you might create:

CommandDescription
/sync-source-to-docsSyncs source file changes to documentation
/run-testsExecutes your configured test suite
/generate-changelogCreates changelog from recent commits

Steering files

Steering files configured with manual inclusion appear as slash commands. Unlike always-on steering that's automatically included in every conversation, manual steering files let you pull in specific guidance only when you need it. When selected, the file's contents are added to your current conversation context. Here are some examples:

CommandDescription
/accessibilityAccessibility guidelines for UI components
/code-reviewCode review checklist and feedback principles
/performanceReact and Next.js performance optimization tips
/refactorRefactoring rules and common patterns
/testingTesting standards and Jest/RTL conventions

How it works

Adding hooks

To add a hook as a slash command, set its trigger type to Manual. See Hook types for details.

Adding steering files

To add a steering file as a slash command, set inclusion: manual in the frontmatter. See Steering for configuration options.

Using slash commands

  1. Type / in the chat input field
  2. Browse or search the available commands
  3. Select a command and press Enter

Best practices

  • Use descriptive names — Clear names like /run-e2e-tests or /accessibility make commands easy to find
  • Context switching — Create steering files for different workflows (frontend, backend, testing) and switch between them as needed
  • Combine with # providers — Slash commands work alongside context providers for maximum control
Page updated: December 3, 2025
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