This guide walks you through installing Claude Code, connecting it to your Anthropic account, and running a real coding task.Documentation Index
Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mintlify.com/VineeTagarwal-code/claude-code/llms.txt
Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
Install Claude Code
Install Claude Code globally via npm. You need Node.js 18 or later.Verify the installation:You should see output like:
If
claude is not found after installation, make sure your npm global bin directory is on your PATH. Run npm bin -g to find the directory and add it to your shell configuration.Authenticate
Run You will be prompted to choose an authentication method:
claude for the first time. Claude Code launches an interactive authentication flow.- Sign in with claude.ai — Use your claude.ai account (Pro or Max). This is the recommended option if you already have a subscription.
- Use an API key — Enter an Anthropic API key from console.anthropic.com. This option is available if you use the API directly.
Navigate to your project
Exit the session with Starting Claude Code from inside a git repository gives it access to the full project structure. It reads your files on demand as it works through your requests.
/exit or Ctrl+C, then navigate to a project directory. Claude Code uses the files in your working directory as context.Make your first request
Type a task in plain English at the Claude Code reads Claude Code searches your codebase for the login endpoint, identifies the missing validation, edits the source file, and writes a test. It shows you a diff of every change before writing.Example: explore the codebaseClaude Code reads your directory structure, follows imports, and gives you a high-level explanation without you having to navigate files manually.
> prompt. Claude Code reads the relevant files, decides which tools to use, and executes the task.Example: explain a functionsrc/config.ts, locates the function, and explains it in plain language — including its inputs, outputs, and side effects.Example: fix a bugUse slash commands
Type Shows all available slash commands and their descriptions.Switch modelsOpens an interactive model picker. Select from available Claude models. The currently active model is shown next to the command name.Initialize project memoryAnalyzes your codebase and generates a If the session is running low on context window space, Exits the session. You can also press Ctrl+C.
/ at the prompt to see available commands. Here are the most useful ones to know first:Get helpCLAUDE.md file at the project root. Claude Code reads this file at the start of every session, so you can record project-specific instructions — build commands, coding conventions, repo quirks — that Claude should always follow.Compact the conversation/compact summarizes earlier parts of the conversation to free up room without losing important context.ExitWhat happens during a session
When you submit a request, Claude Code:- Reads the relevant files using
FileRead,Glob, andGreptools - Plans the changes it needs to make
- Asks for permission before running commands or making edits (by default)
- Shows diffs for file changes and command output as it works
- Summarizes what it did at the end of the turn
Next steps
Installation
See all install methods including native binaries and platform package managers.
Slash commands
Explore the full list of slash commands and what each one does.
Tools
Learn about the built-in tools Claude Code uses to work with your code.
Configuration
Configure models, permissions, environment variables, and more.