Glossary
What is Cursor?
Cursor is an AI code editor, built on VS Code, with an agent that can read a codebase, make multi-file edits, run terminal commands and use tools. It also offers inline completions and chat. Developers and founders use its agent mode to build features and run project tasks.
Main features
- Tab completions: predicts the next edit.
- Chat: questions about the codebase.
- Agent: multi-step tasks, file edits and terminal commands with approval.
- Rules: project instructions the agent follows.
- Tools: connections through MCP.
Cursor vs terminal agents
| Cursor | Claude Code / Codex CLI | |
|---|---|---|
| Interface | Editor | Terminal (plus IDE plugins) |
| Best for | Working while watching code | Running tasks, scripts, automation |
| Agent | Yes | Yes |
Many developers use both.
For launches
A launch kit opened in Cursor works like it does in other agents: the agent reads the instructions and data in the repository and carries out the steps, with you approving actions.
Example
A founder opens her project in Cursor, asks the agent to add a pricing page and update the sitemap, reviews the diff and accepts it.
FAQ
Is Cursor free?
It has a free tier and paid plans; check current pricing.
Is Cursor based on VS Code?
Yes, it's built on VS Code and supports most of its extensions.
Does Cursor have an agent?
Yes, an agent mode that edits files and runs commands.
Can Cursor run tasks in the background?
Cursor offers background agents that work on tasks while you continue editing.