From install to a useful learning moment.

Prerequisites

• macOS and a supported desktop coding host.
• Node22+ available to the local plugin launcher.
• An existing working host/model connection. No new DontDumb model key.

Install with your agent

Give your coding agent one URL and let it handle setup, with native approvals left to you.

Install DontDumb using the instructions at https://dontdumb-web.web.app/install.md

1. Choose your host

Follow the dedicated Codex, Claude Code or OpenCode guide. Download the matching public beta from the product site, or let your coding agent use the verified release manifest. Do not install a similarly named registry package by assumption.

2. Set your learning context

In Learn, open Your learning context. State what you want to understand, what you already know and your preferred learning format. You can edit these later. Self-reported knowledge is distinct from assessed practice evidence.

3. Give the coding agent real work

Start a task in the coding chat, not Learn. DontDumb samples permitted work events and can offer a relevant concept while the agent continues. Choose an opportunity to explore it, or ask about the captured work. It does not assume full repository access.

4. Participate

Try a prediction, question, explanation, mind map or interactive. Explain your reasoning in your own words. Use Dismiss to move on; History preserves earlier learning content. Reading an explanation is not treated as mastery.

5. Control the pace

Use Learn settings to adjust frequency. Closing the panel hides it while observation continues. Turning learning off or pausing stops learning activity. Find learning in current work is a manual check when you need one.

For failures, use troubleshooting; a visible On indicator is not proof of successful model calls or notification delivery.