LLM Error Explanation
Ask a configured model to explain a terminal error.
Availability
Implemented in the stable source; configuration and compatibility limits are described below.
Reviewed against stable v0.5.1. Rust candidate additions are labeled separately. Release status.
The pain this solves
- Compiler and command errors can take time to interpret.
- Copying a long terminal transcript to an external model can disclose more than needed.
What ships with it
- When invoked, the explainer sends up to the last 2,000 output characters and an optional command.
- Supported configurations include OpenAI, Anthropic, Ollama, and custom endpoints.
- The UI displays a summary and suggested fixes; dangerous suggestions are copy-only in the Apply view.
Questions this answers
- How to explain terminal errors with AI?
- One-click error analysis in terminal using LLM
- Send terminal errors to ChatGPT or Claude for explanation
- AI-powered error explanation in terminal app
How it works
When invoked, the error explainer sends the last 2,000 characters of the supplied terminal output and, when available, the related command. It asks the configured model for a summary, details, confidence, and suggested fixes.
The LLM client supports OpenAI, Anthropic, Ollama, and custom provider configurations. The response is shown in Chau7 with any parsed fix suggestions; non-dangerous suggestions can be applied from the view, while dangerous suggestions are offered for copying.
The output is sent to the provider configured for this feature. A local Ollama endpoint can keep the request on the local setup, while an external provider receives the submitted excerpt; do not treat this feature as a guarantee that terminal text stays on-device.
Why it matters
An error explanation can help translate a confusing build or command failure into a short summary and possible next steps. Chau7 sends a bounded excerpt only when the explainer is invoked, and suggested commands remain visible for review.
Frequently asked questions
Which providers are supported?
The configured provider can be OpenAI, Anthropic, Ollama, or a custom endpoint supported by Chau7’s LLM client.
What terminal data is sent?
The explainer sends the last 2,000 characters of the supplied output and the command when one is provided.
Does Chau7 automatically run every suggested fix?
No. The UI presents suggestions. Non-dangerous suggestions have an Apply action, while dangerous ones are offered for copying rather than applying through that button.