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A breakdown of how one developer integrates Claude Code into their daily engineering workflow.
Core Setup: The `CLAUDE.md` File#
The CLAUDE.md file acts as the repo’s operating manual for the agent. It defines the main tools, APIs, and conventions the team uses. Keep it concise and reference long documentation by link rather than embedding large sections. The goal is clarity, not verbosity.
Managing Context and Sessions#
Use /context to track memory size, and reset with /clear + /catchup to refresh the workspace after file changes. For larger projects, save progress to a .md file before clearing so you can easily resume later. This balance keeps the agent aware but prevents context overload.
Custom Slash Commands#
Commands like /catchup or /pr streamline recurring workflows. Simplicity is key—if you need a long list of commands, you’re probably adding friction rather than speed.
Subagents and Collaboration#
Instead of relying on multiple rigid subagents, it’s often better to let the main agent manage context and spawn lightweight clones when needed. This keeps workflows flexible and reduces coordination overhead.
Hooks for Validation#
Hooks enforce consistency and prevent bad commits. Two types are common:
- Blocking hooks stop actions like
git commitif tests fail. - Hint hooks just log or suggest improvements.
Run blocking hooks at commit time, not during editing, to keep feedback useful but non-disruptive.
Skills and MCPs#
“Skills” formalize scripts and CLIs the agent can call directly. MCPs (Model Context Protocol) are best used as focused data gateways, exposing a few powerful entry points—like raw data or controlled execution—rather than huge APIs.
Integrations and Configuration#
The Claude Code SDK works for automation and prototyping, while the GitHub Action plugin brings the agent into CI pipelines for PR automation and logging. Common settings.json options include proxy setup, timeout controls, and shared enterprise keys.
Takeaway#
Treat Claude Code like a teammate who follows your engineering principles: document its tools clearly, manage context deliberately, and build around stable, auditable workflows.