File Analysis with @ Syntax
One of the most powerful features of Gemini MCP Tool is the ability to analyze files using the @
syntax.
Basic Usage
/gemini-cli:analyze @index.js explain this code
ask gemini to analyze the entire codebase and a comment block
to the top of every script, explaining that script. Use flash.
Ask gemini to explain @index.js by reading the entire codebase first
Ask gemini to analyze @src/ and provide bug fixes
Ask gemini what the weather is like in new york
...then use gemini to review your recent modifications
Multiple Files
Analyze multiple files in one request:
/gemini-cli:analyze @src/server.js @src/client.js how do these interact?
analyze @src/server.js @src/client.js and provide bug fixes
Entire Directories
Analyze whole directories:
/gemini-cli:analyze @src/**/*.ts summarize the TypeScript architecture
analyze @main using gemini and determine the top 3 optimizations
Why @ Syntax?
- Familiar: Both Claude and Gemini natively support it
- Explicit: Clear which files are being analyzed
- Flexible: Works with single files, multiple files, or patterns
Best Practices
1. Be Specific
// Good
@src/auth/login.js explain the authentication flow
// Too vague
@src explain everything
2. Use Patterns Wisely
// Analyze all test files
@**/*.test.js are all tests passing?
// Analyze specific module
@modules/payment/*.js review payment logic
3. Combine with Questions
@package.json @src/index.js is this properly configured?
4. Speak Naturally
What does gemini think about that?
ask gemini to get a second opinion
Token Optimization
Gemini's massive context window allows analyzing entire codebases, saving claude tokens.
Examples
Code Review
@feature/new-api.js review this PR changes
Documentation
@src/utils/*.js generate JSDoc comments
Debugging
@error.log @src/handler.js why is this error occurring?