Chat

Claude Code's conversational interface for AI-powered development assistance. Interact with your code through natural language conversations.

What is Chat?

Chat is the primary way you interact with Claude Code - a terminal-based conversation where you describe what you want and Claude helps you build it. No complex commands or syntax to memorize, just natural language instructions.

Getting Started

Launch a chat session from your terminal:

claude                              # Start new session
claude "Fix the authentication bug" # Start with specific request
claude --continue                   # Continue last session
claude --resume                     # Resume a previous session

Once in chat, describe what you need:

# Ask questions
> How does authentication work in this codebase?

# Request changes
> Add error handling to the login function

# Debug issues
> Why is the API returning 500 errors?

# Generate code
> Create a user service with CRUD operations

Key Capabilities

Contextual Understanding

Claude automatically analyzes your project structure, dependencies, and existing patterns. It understands which files are relevant to your request and maintains context throughout the conversation.

Natural Language Instructions

Describe what you want in plain English instead of memorizing commands. Claude interprets your intent and chooses the appropriate tools and actions.

Interactive Iteration

Refine solutions through back-and-forth conversation. Claude remembers the discussion context and builds on previous exchanges.

Permission Modes

Switch between permission modes to control how much Claude does without asking — from full review to scripted automation.

Chat Features

Statusline

Real-time display showing current context, token usage, and session state.

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Shortcuts

Keyboard shortcuts for efficient navigation and interaction.

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Commands

Slash commands for common operations and mode switching.

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File References

Attach specific files or directories to give Claude targeted context.

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Permission Modes

Control how much Claude does without asking — from full review to scripted automation.

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Related

• Steering - Control Claude's behavior and output
• MCP Servers - Extend capabilities with external tools
• Guides - Complete workflows and patterns