# Opening files in external editors

Use Open externally or reveal the path, edit with the external application, save, then return to Foxora and confirm the file refreshes.

![Opening files in external editors in Foxora Desktop v5.0.3](/docs/images/v5.0.3/desktop/stage-files.webp)

## Where this lives

Open a project-backed task, then choose the project from the Stage.

The file surface shows the active project tree, open tabs, file contents, agent edits, diagnostics, and generated project files.

> **Safety:** Generated and agent-edited files are ordinary project files. Review diffs before overwriting, deleting, or committing them.

## Steps

1. Open a project-backed task, then choose the project from the Stage.
2. Use Open externally or reveal the path.
3. Edit with the external application.
4. Save.
5. Return to Foxora and confirm the file refreshes.
6. **Confirm the result.** Reload or reopen the file and run the appropriate formatter, test, build, or preview.

## Choose the right path

- Edit directly for small precise changes.
- Ask an agent for multi-file work.
- Open an external editor when specialized tooling is needed.


## Confirm it worked

- Reload or reopen the file and run the appropriate formatter, test, build, or preview.
- The screen, command, file, run, or destination named in this guide reflects the expected state.