claude-code

Claude Code essential commands: start without wrecking your project

A safe workflow for installing Claude Code, asking it to read the project, making a plan, and reviewing changes before accepting them.

Start with reading, not editing

The most common Claude Code mistake is asking for a whole feature in the first prompt. The tool works better when you separate exploration, planning, implementation, and verification.

Install and diagnose

npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code
claude doctor

Enter your project:

cd my-project
claude

Recommended first prompt:

Read the project structure, identify the stack, scripts, and important files. Do not change anything yet.

Then:

Propose a short plan to fix this bug: <describe the bug>. Include which tests to run.

Only then ask for implementation:

Implement the smallest possible patch and run the relevant tests before concluding.

My rule

Claude Code is powerful, but it is not autopilot. Use it like a pair programmer: it proposes and edits, you review the diff, test, and decide.