How to Use GitHub Copilot for Pair Programming in Under 30 Minutes

Pair programming can feel like a daunting task, especially if you're working with someone new or if you're just starting to integrate AI tools into your workflow. But what if I told you that you could harness the power of GitHub Copilot to enhance your pair programming experience, all in under 30 minutes? In 2026, with the rapid evolution of AI coding tools, GitHub Copilot has become a game-changer for developers. Let's dive into how you can set it up, use it effectively, and troubleshoot common issues.

Prerequisites

Before you get started, make sure you have the following:

• GitHub account: You'll need an active GitHub account to access Copilot.
• Visual Studio Code (VSCode): Install the latest version of VSCode if you haven't already.
• GitHub Copilot subscription: As of May 2026, Copilot costs $10/month with a free trial available for the first 30 days.
• Basic understanding of Git and VSCode: Familiarity with these tools will help you get the most out of your pair programming session.

Step 1: Setting Up GitHub Copilot

1. Install the GitHub Copilot Extension:

   • Open VSCode.
   • Go to the Extensions view (Ctrl+Shift+X).
   • Search for "GitHub Copilot" and click "Install".

2. Authenticate Your Account:

   • After installation, you'll be prompted to sign in to your GitHub account.
   • Follow the on-screen instructions to authenticate.

3. Enable Copilot:

   • Once authenticated, ensure GitHub Copilot is enabled in the settings. You can find this under File > Preferences > Settings, then search for "Copilot".

Step 2: Starting Your Pair Programming Session

1. Create a New Project:

   • Open a new terminal in VSCode and create a new directory for your project.
   • Run git init to initialize a new Git repository.

2. Collaborate with Your Partner:

   • Share your screen or use a collaborative tool like Live Share in VSCode. This allows your partner to see your code and contribute in real-time.

3. Utilize Copilot Suggestions:

   • As you type, GitHub Copilot will suggest code snippets. You can accept suggestions by pressing Tab or Enter.
   • Discuss the suggestions with your partner. This encourages collaboration and helps you both learn from each other.

Step 3: Troubleshooting Common Issues

• Copilot Not Suggesting Code: If you're not getting suggestions, check your internet connection and ensure that the extension is enabled.
• Suggestions Are Not Relevant: Sometimes Copilot's suggestions may not fit your needs. You can modify your input or provide comments in your code to guide Copilot better.
• Performance Issues: If VSCode is lagging, try disabling other extensions that might be consuming resources.

What Could Go Wrong

• Miscommunication: Ensure that both partners are on the same page regarding the task at hand. Misunderstandings can lead to wasted time and frustration.
• Over-reliance on Copilot: While Copilot is a powerful tool, it's crucial to remember that it’s not infallible. Always review and understand the code it generates before integrating it into your project.

What's Next

Once you've successfully paired programmed with GitHub Copilot, consider exploring other AI coding tools to complement your workflow. Tools like TabNine or Codeium can provide additional perspectives and suggestions.

Conclusion: Start Here

To kick off your pair programming journey with GitHub Copilot, follow the steps outlined above. With a little setup and collaboration, you'll be able to leverage AI to enhance your coding experience and boost productivity. Remember, the key is to communicate effectively with your partner and make sure to review Copilot's suggestions critically.

If you’re looking for additional insights and tools we use, check out our podcast, Built This Week, where we discuss our experiences and the latest in AI coding tools.