Feature Request: Richer command discovery (descriptions, categories, search)

[Rolling2405]

Summary

GitHub Copilot CLI is incredibly powerful, but its blank terminal prompt can be intimidating for users who aren't comfortable with command lines. Many potential users never discover features like /fleet, /delegate, /research, or /mcp because there's no visual indication these exist beyond typing / and scrolling.

Proposal: Add richer command discovery — showing descriptions, categories, or a searchable command browser alongside the existing autocomplete.

Problem

• New users face a blank prompt with no visual cues about what's possible
• 45+ slash commands exist but require memorization or /help lookup
• The / autocomplete shows command names but not descriptions or categories
• Features like MCP servers, fleet mode, and delegation are powerful but hidden
• There's no way to browse commands organized by purpose (Code, Session, Models, Agent, etc.)

Proposed Solution

Enhanced command discovery, which could take several forms:

1. Categorized command browser — A /commands command that opens an interactive browser showing all commands organized by category with descriptions
2. Richer autocomplete — When typing /, show command descriptions alongside names (not just the command name)
3. Command palette — A Ctrl+K shortcut that opens a fuzzy search across all commands and their descriptions (similar to VS Code)
4. Startup hints — Briefly show a few "did you know?" command suggestions on launch for new users

What Does NOT Change

• All copilot functionality remains identical
• All slash commands work the same way
• Power users can ignore this entirely and type commands directly

Why This Matters

The automatic transmission didn't make cars less powerful — it made them accessible to more people. Similarly, better command discovery wouldn't reduce Copilot CLI's power; it would make that power discoverable to users who currently find the blank terminal intimidating.

This could significantly expand the user base for Copilot CLI beyond power users to include:

• Developers who primarily use GUIs/IDEs
• Students learning to code
• Non-developers who want to use AI coding assistance
• Anyone who prefers visual interfaces over memorizing commands