Getting started¶

Backpocket opens an existing Backlog.md board from one of three sources. Choose the source that owns the files you want to work with.

Browse a public repository¶

Use the anonymous path to open a public Backlog.md repository read-only. It does not require a Backpocket account or a GitHub credential. This is useful for trying the app before connecting a repository of your own.

Connect to GitHub¶

Authorise Backpocket with GitHub's device flow, then choose a repository and branch. Backpocket receives a repository-scoped credential from GitHub and stores it in the system keychain on your device. The app never sees your GitHub password.

You can also enter a fine-grained personal access token. Give it access only to the repositories you want Backpocket to use. The token is stored in the system keychain and sent only to GitHub for verification and repository access.

Use a clone or folder¶

Connect a clone URL when you want the app to work through Git, or choose a folder when the board is already available through Files or on your Mac. Access remains scoped to the repository or folder you select.

What happens next¶

Backpocket checks that the selected source contains a readable backlog/ directory before adding it as a project. A public repository opened anonymously stays read-only. Writable sources expose only the edits the app supports; ambiguous or malformed task files remain read-only rather than being repaired automatically.