install-vscode-extension

Installs VS Code extensions by extension ID using the workbench command.

Updated Aug 20, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/basedgod55hjl/vsbrax --skill install-vscode-extension-basedgod55hjl
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: install-vscode-extension
Source: https://github.com/basedgod55hjl/vsbrax/tree/main/extensions/copilot/assets/prompts/skills/install-vscode-extension
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/basedgod55hjl/vsbrax --skill install-vscode-extension-basedgod55hjl

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? Users often know which VS Code extension they want but not the exact command or arguments needed to install it programmatically. This Skill provides the precise steps to install any extension from its publisher.extensionName ID. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Extension ID Resolution: Explains the standard publisher.extensionName identifier format, such as ms-python.python for the Microsoft Python extension. - Command-Based Installation: Uses the built-in workbench.extensions.installExtension command with arguments for enabling the extension and selecting pre-release versions. - Stable vs Pre-Release Handling: Installs the pre-release version only when the user explicitly requests it or when running in VS Code Insiders; otherwise installs the stable release. - Use Case: A user asks to add Python support to their editor, and the Skill installs ms-python.python via the copilot_runVscodeCommand tool with skipCheck enabled. ## Quick Start Install the Python extension by running the VS Code install command with the extension ID ms-python.python.

Frequently Asked Questions about install-vscode-extension

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I install a VS Code extension from the command line?▼

Use the workbench.extensions.installExtension command with the extension ID as the argument, in the format [extensionId, { enable: true, installPreReleaseVersion: boolean }]. The extension ID follows the publisher.extensionName pattern, such as ms-python.python.

What is a VS Code extension ID and where do I find it?▼

A VS Code extension ID uniquely identifies an extension using the format publisher.extensionName. For example, the Microsoft Python extension has the ID ms-python.python. You need this ID to install extensions programmatically.

How do I install the pre-release version of a VS Code extension?▼

Set installPreReleaseVersion to true in the install command arguments. Only do this when the user explicitly requests the pre-release version or when the current environment is VS Code Insiders; otherwise install the stable version.

Why does the extension install command fail with a command not found error?▼

The workbench.extensions.installExtension command is built into VS Code and always exists. When invoking it through copilot_runVscodeCommand, pass skipCheck as true to bypass the existence check and avoid false failures.