CLAUDE.md Template
Template Purpose
Use CLAUDE.md when your team wants Claude-specific working guidance in addition to a general AGENTS.md.
Recommended File Path
/CLAUDE.md
Minimal Version
# CLAUDE.md
## Working Style
- plan before patching on risky changes
- list findings first in reviews
## Validation
- run focused tests before broad suites
Full Version
# CLAUDE.md
## Working Style
- gather repo context before editing
- use the smallest safe patch
- keep summaries concise and factual
## Review Rules
- findings first
- include severity and file paths
## Validation
- preferred commands
- when to run full validation
## Safety Rules
- no secrets in prompts
- no destructive actions without confirmation
Example Completed Version
# CLAUDE.md
## Working Style
- Inspect changed docs before editing.
- Preserve URLs and navigation.
## Review Rules
- List broken links, stale claims, and missing validation first.
## Validation
- Run `npm run docs:validate` after doc changes.
- Run `npm run docs:build` before release.
Field-by-Field Explanation
Working Style: how the assistant should approach tasksReview Rules: review-specific expectationsValidation: what “done” meansSafety Rules: boundaries for risky actions
Customization Guidance
- keep it tool-specific
- avoid duplicating everything from
AGENTS.md
Common Mistakes
- conflicting instructions across files
- vague validation requirements
Validation Checklist
- file path is correct
- rules do not conflict with
AGENTS.md - commands are current