Claude Code
Getting Started with Claude Code
Everything you need to install, configure, and run your first successful Claude Code session.
Prerequisites
Required for Claude Code installation
For version control integration
Sign up at claude.ai
Installation
Install Claude Code CLI
Install globally to make the claude command available system-wide
$ npm install -g claude-codeAuthenticate
Follow prompts to authenticate with your Claude account
$ claude auth loginVerify installation
Confirm Claude Code is installed and accessible
$ claude --versionYour first session
Navigate to your project
Open terminal and cd into your project directory
Start Claude Code
Launch Claude in your project context
Describe your task clearly
Be specific about what you want to accomplish
Request a plan first
Ask Claude to outline the approach before making changes
Review and approve
Read through the plan, ask questions, then approve or adjust
Verify changes
Review diffs, run tests, and ensure everything works
Good first tasks
Understand existing code
"Explain how the authentication system works in this codebase"
When joining a new project or codebase
Fix a simple bug
"The login button doesn't work when email is empty. Can you fix this?"
When you have a clear, isolated issue
Add a small feature
"Add a character counter to the bio text area that shows '250 characters remaining'"
When you want to add simple, well-defined functionality
Write tests
"Add unit tests for the validateEmail function with edge cases"
When you need test coverage for existing code
Essential tips
Start small
Begin with simple tasks to build confidence and understand how Claude Code works before tackling complex changes
Be specific in prompts
Vague requests lead to vague results. Include constraints, requirements, and examples
Always review changes
Never blindly accept code. Use git diff and understand what changed before committing
Iterate with feedback
If the first result isn't perfect, provide specific feedback rather than starting over
Use plan mode
For anything beyond trivial changes, request a plan first to catch issues early
Common beginner mistakes
Trying to do too much at once
Solution: Break large tasks into smaller, sequential steps. Complete and verify each before moving on
Not providing enough context
Solution: Share error messages, requirements, constraints, and examples to help Claude understand fully
Skipping the review step
Solution: Always review diffs and run tests. Trust but verify every change
Working without version control
Solution: Always use git. Commit working code before asking Claude to make changes
Keyboard shortcuts
Exit current operation
End input / Exit Claude
Navigate command history