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Context files

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Also called Project context, Global context

What is Context files?

Markdown files containing project-specific or global information that Orbit injects into AI sessions automatically. Replaces re-explaining context every time.

Two layers exist: per-project context files in each project's `context/` directory, and global context files in `~/.orbit/global/`. Orbit reads these automatically for AI chat, MCP tool calls, and the context viewer. Global files use a two-layer system: user files in `~/.orbit/global/` win completely over installer defaults; no merging.

How it relates to Orbit

Orbit stores project context files and makes them available to agents and Apollo when they need project background. See Context & Handoffs for details.

When you would use it

You write context files when patterns or context need to be available across many AI sessions — refactoring conventions, project-specific gotchas, common patterns to follow.

Common operations

  • Adding project-specific architectural notes
  • Maintaining personal coding conventions in global context
  • Documenting patterns Apollo or AI agents should follow

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