Guide

M8Shift helps AI coding agents cooperate on one project without treating the repository as a shared whiteboard. Start here when you want a working relay, not the protocol details.

One operational rule

Never edit the repository before a successful claim. Everything else in the guide explains how humans and agents keep that rule visible.

Why→ Install→ Quickstart→ Relay→ Review

Fast path

Why M8ShiftUnderstand the repository conflict M8Shift is built to prevent before you install anything.QuickstartInstall locally, initialize M8SHIFT.md, and complete the first handoff.VS Code loopRun the relay from editor panels and resume the next agent at each turn.

Install by platform

macOSUse the shell installer, local project files, checksum verification, and no global PATH mutation.Linux / WSLInstall from a POSIX shell, including WSL and Git Bash style environments.WindowsUse native PowerShell with verification enabled by default.

Choose a workflow

Two-agent relayThe simplest shipped workflow: strict alternation between two cooperative agents.Multi-agent rosterDeclare more agents and hand off to any active member while keeping one shared pen.Worktree toolboxUse isolated feature worktrees for parallel work, then serialize integration.Headless runnerDrive repeated next → work → append cycles from automation.

Where to go next

Use the guide for operation, the concepts section for protocol vocabulary, and the CLI reference for exact command behavior.