How to Use GitHub Copilot for Efficient Pair Programming in 2026

Pair programming can feel like a double-edged sword. It’s a fantastic way to enhance code quality and share knowledge, but it can also be a drain on time and resources. Enter GitHub Copilot, an AI-powered coding assistant that can help streamline the process and make your sessions more efficient. In this guide, I’ll show you how to leverage GitHub Copilot for pair programming, and you can get started in just 30 minutes.

Time Estimate and Prerequisites

Time: You can finish this setup in about 30 minutes.
Prerequisites:

• A GitHub account (free tier available)
• Visual Studio Code (VS Code) installed
• GitHub Copilot subscription ($10/month or $100/year after a 60-day free trial)

Step-by-Step Setup for Pair Programming with GitHub Copilot

1. Install GitHub Copilot in VS Code

Start by installing the GitHub Copilot extension in Visual Studio Code:

• Open VS Code and go to Extensions (Ctrl+Shift+X).
• Search for "GitHub Copilot" and click on "Install."
• After installation, sign in with your GitHub account to activate the extension.

Expected Output: You should see the Copilot icon in the bottom right corner of your VS Code window.

2. Start a Pair Programming Session

Once you have Copilot installed, it's time to set up your coding environment for pair programming:

• Open a new project or an existing codebase.
• Invite your coding partner to join the session via live share in VS Code (you can access this in the Extensions panel).

Expected Output: Your partner should be able to see and edit the code in real-time.

3. Use Copilot to Generate Code Suggestions

As you type, GitHub Copilot will start suggesting code snippets based on the context of your project. Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Discuss with your partner what functionality you want to implement.
• Start typing a function or comment with a description of what you want to achieve. For example, typing // Function to calculate the sum of an array will prompt Copilot to suggest a relevant implementation.

Expected Output: Copilot generates code snippets that you can review and accept or modify.

4. Review and Refine Suggestions Together

This is where the real pair programming magic happens. As Copilot generates suggestions, take a moment to review them together:

• Discuss the generated code and modify it as needed.
• Take turns accepting or rejecting suggestions to ensure both partners are engaged.

Expected Output: A refined piece of code that has been vetted by both programmers.

5. Test and Iterate

Once you have a piece of code that both partners agree on, it's time to test it:

• Write unit tests to verify the functionality.
• Use Copilot to help generate test cases if needed.

Expected Output: A set of working tests confirming that the code meets the requirements.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Copilot Not Suggesting Code: Ensure that your internet connection is stable and that you’re logged into GitHub. Sometimes, restarting VS Code can help.
• Suggestions are Outdated or Irrelevant: Make sure your coding context is clear. If suggestions seem off, try providing more specific comments or function names.

What's Next?

Once you’ve mastered using GitHub Copilot for pair programming, consider exploring more advanced features:

• Integrate Copilot with other tools like GitHub Actions for CI/CD.
• Experiment with different programming languages and frameworks to see how Copilot adapts.

Conclusion: Start Here

Using GitHub Copilot for pair programming can significantly enhance your coding sessions, making them more efficient and collaborative. Start by setting up your environment, inviting a partner, and letting Copilot handle some of the heavy lifting. In our experience, having Copilot as a coding companion not only speeds up development but also fosters better communication and learning between partners.

If you want to dive deeper into building products and tools like this, check out our journey on the Built This Week podcast, where we share insights and lessons from our own building experiences.