DocsGetting StartedUnderstanding Repls

Getting Started

Understanding Repls

Learn what a Repl is and how the workspace is organized.

What is a Repl?

A Repl (short for REPL — Read Eval Print Loop) is a self-contained project in Syvera. Each Repl includes:

  • A file system with your source code
  • A runtime environment (Node.js, Python, Go, etc.)
  • A shell / terminal
  • A live preview for web projects
  • An optional database

Everything runs in the cloud — no local setup required.

Workspace layout

The Syvera workspace is divided into four main areas:

File tree (left sidebar)

Browse and manage your project files. Right-click any file or folder for options like rename, delete, or move.

Editor (center)

A Monaco-based code editor with:

  • Syntax highlighting for 50+ languages
  • IntelliSense autocomplete
  • Multi-cursor editing
  • Vim and Emacs keybindings (Settings → Editor)

Shell / Terminal (bottom panel)

A full bash shell connected to your Repl's container. Run any command here — npm install, git, database migrations, etc.

Preview (right panel)

For web projects, a live preview updates as you save. You can open the preview in a full browser tab by clicking the external link icon.

File system

Your Repl's file system is persistent — files are saved automatically and survive restarts. The working directory is always /home/runner/{your-repl-name}.

Special files:

  • `.syvera` — Configures the run command, language, and environment
  • `syvera.nix` — Declares system packages available in your environment
  • `.env` — Environment variables (never committed to public Repls)