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CLAUDE.md files contain important guidelines and context-specific information or instructions that help Claude Code better understand your project and your coding standards. These files serve as a persistent reference that Claude consults throughout your development sessions.

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What Are CLAUDE.md Files?

A CLAUDE.md file is a special markdown document placed in the root of your project that provides Claude Code with:
  • Project-specific coding conventions and style guidelines
  • Build and test commands
  • Architecture and module structure information
  • Development workflows and best practices
  • Technology stack details and dependencies
  • Security considerations and requirements

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Types of CLAUDE.md Files

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Language-Specific

These files provide guidance for projects using specific programming languages and frameworks:

AI IntelliJ Plugin

Comprehensive Gradle commands for IntelliJ plugin development with platform-specific coding patterns and internationalization standards.

AWS MCP Server

Multiple Python environment setup options with detailed code style guidelines and security considerations for AWS CLI interactions.

DroidconKotlin

Gradle commands for cross-platform Kotlin Multiplatform development with clear module structure and dependency injection guidance.

Giselle

Build and test commands using pnpm and Vitest with strict code formatting requirements and comprehensive naming conventions.

HASH

Comprehensive repository structure breakdown with emphasis on Rust documentation guidelines and systematic PR review process.

Inkline

Development workflow using pnpm with TypeScript and Vue 3 Composition API, detailed component creation process, and testing recommendations.

JSBeeb

Development guide for JavaScript BBC Micro emulator with build and testing instructions, architecture documentation, and debugging workflows.

LangGraphJS

Build and test commands with detailed TypeScript style guidelines, layered library architecture, and monorepo structure using yarn workspaces.

Metabase

Workflow for REPL-driven development in Clojure/ClojureScript with emphasis on incremental development and testing.

SPy

Strict coding conventions with comprehensive testing guidelines, multiple code compilation options, and backend-specific test decorators.

TPL

Go project conventions with comprehensive error handling recommendations, table-driven testing approach guidelines, and modernization suggestions.

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Domain-Specific

These files provide context for specific application domains or use cases:

Course Builder

Real-time multiplayer capabilities for collaborative course creation with diverse tech stack integration and monorepo architecture using Turborepo.

Cursor Tools

Versatile AI command interface supporting multiple providers and models with flexible command options and browser automation through “Stagehand”.

Guitar

Development guide for Guitar Git GUI Client with build commands for various platforms and code style guidelines for contributing.

Network Chronicles

Detailed implementation plan for AI-driven game characters with technical specifications for LLM integration and character guidelines.

Pareto Mac

Development guide for Mac security audit tool with build instructions, contribution guidelines, testing procedures, and workflow documentation.

pre-commit-hooks

Exemplary documentation that is thorough but not verbose. Great learning resource for how to write effective CLAUDE.md files.

SteadyStart

Clear and direct instructions about style, permissions, Claude’s “role”, communications, and documentation of Claude Code sessions for team members.

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Project Scaffolding & MCP

These files help with project setup and Model Context Protocol integration:

Basic Memory

Innovative AI-human collaboration framework with Model Context Protocol for bidirectional LLM-markdown communication and flexible knowledge structure.

claude-code-mcp-enhanced

Detailed and emphatic instructions for Claude to follow as a coding agent, with testing guidance, code examples, and compliance checks.

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Creating Your CLAUDE.md File

When creating a CLAUDE.md file for your project, consider including:

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1. Project Overview

# Project Name

Brief description of what this project does and its main purpose.

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2. Technology Stack

## Tech Stack

- Language: TypeScript
- Framework: React
- Build Tool: Vite
- Testing: Vitest

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3. Development Commands

## Commands

- `npm install` - Install dependencies
- `npm run dev` - Start development server
- `npm run build` - Build for production
- `npm test` - Run tests

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4. Coding Standards

## Coding Standards

- Use TypeScript strict mode
- Follow ESLint configuration
- Write tests for all new features
- Use conventional commits

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5. Project Structure

## Project Structure

- `/src` - Source code
- `/tests` - Test files
- `/docs` - Documentation

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Best Practices

Keep it concise: Focus on information Claude actually needs. Avoid verbose explanations.
Update regularly: Keep your CLAUDE.md file in sync with your project as it evolves.
Avoid shouting: Don’t write everything in ALL CAPS. Claude responds better to clear, well-structured information than emphasis through capitalization.
Be specific: Include actual commands, file paths, and conventions rather than general advice.

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Examples to Learn From

Several projects are highlighted for having particularly well-crafted CLAUDE.md files:
  • pre-commit-hooks: Thorough but not verbose, great learning resource
  • SteadyStart: Clear and direct instructions about style and workflow
  • HASH: Comprehensive structure breakdown with strong emphasis on coding standards
  • Metabase: Excellent example of REPL-driven development workflow documentation

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Getting Started

  1. Review example CLAUDE.md files from projects similar to yours
  2. Start with basic project information and commands
  3. Add coding standards and conventions specific to your project
  4. Include any special workflows or processes
  5. Test with Claude Code to ensure the instructions are clear
  6. Iterate based on Claude’s performance and your team’s needs

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