Use Claude Code in VS Code changedvs-code
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1919Before installing, make sure you have:
2020
2121* VS Code 1.94.0 or later
22* An Anthropic account: any paid Claude subscription (Pro, Max, Team, or Enterprise) or a Claude Console account works, and no API key is required. You'll [sign in](/docs/en/authentication.md#log-in-to-claude-code) with this account when you first open the extension. If you access Claude through a third-party provider like Amazon Bedrock or Google Cloud's Agent Platform, see [Use third-party providers](#use-third-party-providers) for setup instructions.
22* An Anthropic account: any paid Claude subscription (Pro, Max, Team, or Enterprise) or a Claude Console account works, and no API key is required. You'll [sign in](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/authentication.md#log-in-to-claude-code) with this account when you first open the extension. If you access Claude through a third-party provider like Amazon Bedrock or Google Cloud's Agent Platform, see [Use third-party providers](#use-third-party-providers) for setup instructions.
2323
2424> [!TIP]
2525>
26> The extension bundles its own copy of the CLI (command-line interface) for the chat panel. To run `claude` in VS Code's integrated terminal, you also need the [standalone CLI install](/docs/en/setup.md). See [VS Code extension vs. Claude Code CLI](#vs-code-extension-vs-claude-code-cli) for details.
26> The extension bundles its own copy of the CLI (command-line interface) for the chat panel. To run `claude` in VS Code's integrated terminal, you also need the [standalone CLI install](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/setup.md). See [VS Code extension vs. Claude Code CLI](#vs-code-extension-vs-claude-code-cli) for details.
2727
2828## Install the extension
2929
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3939Claude Code also runs in other editors and containers:
4040
4141* **Other VS Code forks**: the extension also installs in forks like Devin Desktop or Kiro. Search for "Claude Code" in the editor's Extensions view, or install from the [Open VSX registry](https://open-vsx.org/extension/Anthropic/claude-code).
42* **Editors that can't install the extension**: [install the CLI](/docs/en/quickstart.md) and run `claude` in the editor's integrated terminal instead. The CLI works in any terminal.
43* **Dev containers**: to run Claude Code inside a dev container, see [Development containers](/docs/en/devcontainer.md).
42* **Editors that can't install the extension**: [install the CLI](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/quickstart.md) and run `claude` in the editor's integrated terminal instead. The CLI works in any terminal.
43* **Dev containers**: to run Claude Code inside a dev container, see [Development containers](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/devcontainer.md).
4444
4545> [!NOTE]
4646>
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9090
9191**4. Review changes**
9292
93Check the [permission mode](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#which-mode-a-session-starts-in) shown at the bottom of the prompt box:
93Check the [permission mode](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#which-mode-a-session-starts-in) shown at the bottom of the prompt box:
9494
95* In Auto or Edit automatically mode, Claude edits [most files](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#protected-paths) in your workspace without asking.
95* In Auto or Edit automatically mode, Claude edits [most files](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#protected-paths) in your workspace without asking.
9696* In Manual mode, when Claude wants to edit a file, it shows a side-by-side comparison of the original and proposed changes, then asks for permission. You can accept, reject, or tell Claude what to do instead. If you edit the proposed content directly in the diff view before accepting, Claude is told that you modified it so it doesn't assume the file matches its original proposal.
9797
9898 
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103103
104104The same actions are available at the cursor from the editor's context menu and from the Command Palette as **Claude Code: Accept Change at Cursor** and **Claude Code: Reject Change at Cursor**.
105105
106For more ideas on what you can do with Claude Code, see [Common workflows](/docs/en/common-workflows.md).
106For more ideas on what you can do with Claude Code, see [Common workflows](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/common-workflows.md).
107107
108108> [!TIP]
109109>
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113113
114114The prompt box supports several features:
115115
116* **Permission modes**: click the mode indicator at the bottom of the prompt box to switch permission modes. With Claude Code v2.1.283 or later, Auto is the built-in starting permission mode, and on earlier versions only on Pro, Max, and Team plans. See [how the extension chooses the starting permission mode](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes) for what changes that, and every permission mode the indicator offers.
117 * **Auto**: a classifier reviews most actions instead of asking you. See [auto mode](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#eliminate-prompts-with-auto-mode) for what it reviews and blocks.
116* **Permission modes**: click the mode indicator at the bottom of the prompt box to switch permission modes. With Claude Code v2.1.283 or later, Auto is the built-in starting permission mode, and on earlier versions only on Pro, Max, and Team plans. See [how the extension chooses the starting permission mode](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes) for what changes that, and every permission mode the indicator offers.
117 * **Auto**: a classifier reviews most actions instead of asking you. See [auto mode](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#eliminate-prompts-with-auto-mode) for what it reviews and blocks.
118118 * **Manual**: Claude asks permission before file edits and most shell commands.
119119 * **Plan**: Claude describes what it will do and waits for approval before making changes. VS Code automatically opens the plan as a full Markdown document where you can add inline comments to give feedback before Claude begins.
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126126 * **Edit automatically**: Claude makes edits without asking.
127127* **Model**: select **Switch model…** from the command menu to change the model mid-session. You can also click the model name at the bottom of the prompt box to open the same picker. With Claude Code v2.1.284 or later, typing `/model` on its own in the prompt box opens the picker too.
128128
129 When the current model supports [effort levels](/docs/en/model-config.md#adjust-effort-level), the picker also shows an **Effort** row and the model name button shows the selected level. When you pick a level other than `max`, Claude Code saves it for the current model as your default, under [`modelSettings`](/docs/en/settings-reference#modelsettings) in your user settings; `max` applies to the current session only. The model name button and the **Effort** row require Claude Code v2.1.257 or later.
129 When the current model supports [effort levels](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/model-config.md#adjust-effort-level), the picker also shows an **Effort** row and the model name button shows the selected level. When you pick a level other than `max`, Claude Code saves it for the current model as your default, under [`modelSettings`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings-reference#modelsettings) in your user settings; `max` applies to the current session only. The model name button and the **Effort** row require Claude Code v2.1.257 or later.
130130
131 When [dynamic workflows](/docs/en/workflows.md) are enabled and the current model supports it, an **Ultracode** switch appears under the **Effort** row. Turn it on to have Claude plan a [workflow](/docs/en/workflows.md#let-claude-decide-with-ultracode) for each substantive task in this session, at the selected effort level. While it's on, the model name button shows `· Ultracode` after the level. The switch requires Claude Code v2.1.284 or later.
131 When [dynamic workflows](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/workflows.md) are enabled and the current model supports it, an **Ultracode** switch appears under the **Effort** row. Turn it on to have Claude plan a [workflow](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/workflows.md#let-claude-decide-with-ultracode) for each substantive task in this session, at the selected effort level. While it's on, the model name button shows `· Ultracode` after the level. The switch requires Claude Code v2.1.284 or later.
132132* **Command menu**: click `/` or type `/` to open the command menu. Options include attaching files, switching models, and toggling extended thinking.
133133
134134 The Customize section includes entries such as MCP servers, commands, output styles, hooks, memory, instructions, permissions, and plugins. Items with a terminal icon open in the integrated terminal.
135135
136 * To browse commands such as `/usage` or [`/remote-control`](/docs/en/remote-control), select **Slash commands** in the Customize section. A dialog lists them with a filter box. Pick one to run it. Typing `/` in the prompt box still suggests commands inline. Requires Claude Code v2.1.257 or later.
136 * To browse commands such as `/usage` or [`/remote-control`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/remote-control), select **Slash commands** in the Customize section. A dialog lists them with a filter box. Pick one to run it. Typing `/` in the prompt box still suggests commands inline. Requires Claude Code v2.1.257 or later.
137137
138 Typing `/skills` also opens this dialog. Each [skill](/docs/en/skills.md) row shows its [visibility](/docs/en/skills.md#override-skill-visibility-from-settings), such as **On** or **Name only**. Click the visibility to change it, except on rows marked **locked**, such as plugin skills. The `/skills` shortcut and the visibility controls require Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
139 * Select **Output styles** in the Customize section to pick an [output style](/docs/en/output-styles.md), including your custom styles. Requires Claude Code v2.1.257 or later.
138 Typing `/skills` also opens this dialog. Each [skill](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/skills.md) row shows its [visibility](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/skills.md#override-skill-visibility-from-settings), such as **On** or **Name only**. Click the visibility to change it, except on rows marked **locked**, such as plugin skills. The `/skills` shortcut and the visibility controls require Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
139 * Select **Output styles** in the Customize section to pick an [output style](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/output-styles.md), including your custom styles. Requires Claude Code v2.1.257 or later.
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141 To create a custom style instead, select **Build a custom style** from the **Output styles** menu. Claude Code writes the [style file](/docs/en/output-styles.md#create-a-custom-output-style) for you at the project or user level. Requires Claude Code v2.1.261 or later.
142 * Select **Hooks** in the Customize section to view the [hooks](/docs/en/hooks.md) loaded in the session, grouped by event. You can add, edit, or remove hooks saved in your user, project, and local settings files. Hooks from other sources, such as managed settings or plugins, are read-only. Requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
143 * Select **Permissions** in the Customize section to view the session's [permission rules](/docs/en/permissions.md), grouped into Allow, Ask, and Deny. You can add rules to your user, project, or local settings and remove rules saved there. Rules from other sources, such as managed settings or approvals made for this session only, are read-only. Requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
144 * Select **Memory** in the Customize section to turn [auto memory](/docs/en/memory.md#auto-memory) on or off. While it's on, you can also browse the memories Claude has saved and reveal the folders that store them in your file manager. Requires Claude Code v2.1.274 or later.
141 To create a custom style instead, select **Build a custom style** from the **Output styles** menu. Claude Code writes the [style file](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/output-styles.md#create-a-custom-output-style) for you at the project or user level. Requires Claude Code v2.1.261 or later.
142 * Select **Hooks** in the Customize section to view the [hooks](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/hooks.md) loaded in the session, grouped by event. You can add, edit, or remove hooks saved in your user, project, and local settings files. Hooks from other sources, such as managed settings or plugins, are read-only. Requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
143 * Select **Permissions** in the Customize section to view the session's [permission rules](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permissions.md), grouped into Allow, Ask, and Deny. You can add rules to your user, project, or local settings and remove rules saved there. Rules from other sources, such as managed settings or approvals made for this session only, are read-only. Requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
144 * Select **Memory** in the Customize section to turn [auto memory](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/memory.md#auto-memory) on or off. While it's on, you can also browse the memories Claude has saved and reveal the folders that store them in your file manager. Requires Claude Code v2.1.274 or later.
145145
146146 Click a saved memory to read it in the dialog, where you can edit the text, delete the memory, or open its file in the editor. Viewing, editing, and deleting a memory in the dialog require Claude Code v2.1.275 or later.
147 * Select **Instructions** in the Customize section to edit the [CLAUDE.md files](/docs/en/memory.md#claude-md-files) Claude reads. Pick a file to open it in the editor. If the file doesn't exist yet, Claude Code creates it first. Requires Claude Code v2.1.274 or later.
147 * Select **Instructions** in the Customize section to edit the [CLAUDE.md files](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/memory.md#claude-md-files) Claude reads. Pick a file to open it in the editor. If the file doesn't exist yet, Claude Code creates it first. Requires Claude Code v2.1.274 or later.
148148 * Select **Status** in the Customize section, or type `/status`, to check the session's Claude Code version, account, model, and MCP server details. Requires Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
149 * Select **Sandbox** in the Customize section, or type `/sandbox`, to see whether Claude's Bash commands run [sandboxed](/docs/en/sandboxing.md). You can switch the sandbox mode and add [excluded commands](/docs/en/settings-reference.md#sandbox-excludedcommands) there. Requires Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
150 * Select **Claude in Chrome** in the Customize section, or type `/chrome`, to check and manage the [Claude in Chrome](/docs/en/chrome.md) connection. Both require signing in with a claude.ai account. Requires Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
149 * Select **Sandbox** in the Customize section, or type `/sandbox`, to see whether Claude's Bash commands run [sandboxed](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sandboxing.md). You can switch the sandbox mode and add [excluded commands](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings-reference.md#sandbox-excludedcommands) there. Requires Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
150 * Select **Claude in Chrome** in the Customize section, or type `/chrome`, to check and manage the [Claude in Chrome](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/chrome.md) connection. Both require signing in with a claude.ai account. Requires Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
151151 * Select **Export conversation** in the Context section, or type `/export`, to copy the conversation as plain text or save it to a file. Add a file name, such as `/export notes.txt`, to skip the dialog and choose where to save the file. Requires Claude Code v2.1.280 or later.
152 * The Settings section includes **Enable Remote Control for all sessions**, which sets [`remoteControlAtStartup`](/docs/en/settings-reference#remotecontrolatstartup) to control whether [new interactive sessions connect to Remote Control automatically](/docs/en/remote-control.md#enable-remote-control-for-all-sessions). Requires Claude Code v2.1.203 or later.
152 * The Settings section includes **Enable Remote Control for all sessions**, which sets [`remoteControlAtStartup`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings-reference#remotecontrolatstartup) to control whether [new interactive sessions connect to Remote Control automatically](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/remote-control.md#enable-remote-control-for-all-sessions). Requires Claude Code v2.1.203 or later.
153153
154154 When you turn the toggle on or off in a VS Code window, the change isn't limited to sessions you start afterwards. It also applies to the sessions already open in that VS Code window. If you turn it off, the open sessions disconnect. With Claude Code v2.1.261 or later, the change also reaches sessions open in your other VS Code windows.
155155 * The Settings section also includes **Focus view**, which hides tool calls, tool results, and thinking behind expandable rows, leaving your prompts and Claude's responses. Toggle it there, with `Ctrl+Option+F` (Mac) / `Ctrl+Alt+F` (Windows/Linux), or from the Command Palette with **Claude Code: Toggle Focus view**. The change applies to every open session and persists across sessions. Requires Claude Code v2.1.221 or later.
156156
157 Claude's latest to-do list stays visible, and so does the text a pending question from Claude is asking about; this requires Claude Code v2.1.225 or later. While Claude runs [subagents](/docs/en/sub-agents.md), live progress rows with their latest activity appear under the tool-call group that started them. This requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
157 Claude's latest to-do list stays visible, and so does the text a pending question from Claude is asking about; this requires Claude Code v2.1.225 or later. While Claude runs [subagents](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sub-agents.md), live progress rows with their latest activity appear under the tool-call group that started them. This requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
158158 * To sign out of your Anthropic account, select **Sign out** in the Settings section, or type `/logout`. On a [third-party provider](#use-third-party-providers), the menu doesn't offer either. Requires Claude Code v2.1.277 or later.
159159 * To report a bug, click **Report a problem** at the bottom of the menu, or type `/bug` or `/feedback` with an optional description that prefills the report. When you submit the report and you're signed in to Anthropic on a first-party connection, Claude Code sends it to Anthropic. Requires Claude Code v2.1.229 or later.
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161 On a third-party provider, or without Anthropic credentials, nothing is sent. The dialog says so before you write. Submitting saves the report as a [local archive under `~/.claude/feedback-bundles/`](/docs/en/data-usage#telemetry-services) with known API key and token patterns redacted. Saving the report on your computer requires Claude Code v2.1.284 or later.
161 On a third-party provider, or without Anthropic credentials, nothing is sent. The dialog says so before you write. Submitting saves the report as a [local archive under `~/.claude/feedback-bundles/`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/data-usage#telemetry-services) with known API key and token patterns redacted. Saving the report on your computer requires Claude Code v2.1.284 or later.
162162
163163 After the report is saved, the confirmation names the file and includes a **Show folder** button. Send that file to your Anthropic account representative or attach it to a support request.
164164
165165 If your organization's policy turns product feedback off, **Report a problem** doesn't appear in the menu, and `/bug` and `/feedback` show a `Feedback is turned off by your organization's policy or this environment's settings.` notice instead of opening the report. With Claude Code v2.1.284 or later, if you set the `DISABLE_FEEDBACK_COMMAND` or `CLAUDE_CODE_DISABLE_NONESSENTIAL_TRAFFIC` environment variable, feedback is also turned off and opening the report shows that notice instead.
166* **Side questions**: type `/btw` followed by a question to ask about your session [without adding to the conversation](/docs/en/interactive-mode.md#side-questions-with-%2Fbtw). The answer opens in a panel beside the chat, where you can ask follow-up questions. Requires Claude Code v2.1.227 or later.
166* **Side questions**: type `/btw` followed by a question to ask about your session [without adding to the conversation](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/interactive-mode.md#side-questions-with-%2Fbtw). The answer opens in a panel beside the chat, where you can ask follow-up questions. Requires Claude Code v2.1.227 or later.
167167
168 The thread survives window reloads. Claude Code keeps the newest 20 exchanges and expires stored threads on the [`cleanupPeriodDays`](/docs/en/settings-reference#cleanupperioddays) schedule, as long as Claude Code can [safely determine the retention period](/docs/en/claude-directory.md#cleaned-up-automatically). To clear a thread, click the trash icon in the panel.
168 The thread survives window reloads. Claude Code keeps the newest 20 exchanges and expires stored threads on the [`cleanupPeriodDays`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings-reference#cleanupperioddays) schedule, as long as Claude Code can [safely determine the retention period](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/claude-directory.md#cleaned-up-automatically). To clear a thread, click the trash icon in the panel.
169169* **Copy a response**: hover over a response and click **Copy response** to copy it to your clipboard, or type `/copy` to copy the latest response. `/copy 2` copies the second-to-last. Requires Claude Code v2.1.277 or later.
170170* **Bookmarks**: hover over a response and click **Bookmark response** to save it, or click **Remove bookmark** on a saved response to remove it.
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172172 To review saved responses, open the Bookmarks panel. You can click the bookmark icon at the top of the Claude Code panel, select **Bookmarks** in the Context section of the command menu, or type `/bookmarks`. Requires Claude Code v2.1.286 or later.
173* **Files Claude sends you**: when the session is connected to [Remote Control](/docs/en/remote-control.md#start-a-remote-control-session) and Claude sends you files with the [`SendUserFile` tool](/docs/en/tools-reference), the conversation shows a row such as **Sent report.md, chart.png**. Click a file's name to open it in the editor. The row stays visible in Focus view. Requires Claude Code v2.1.295 or later.
173* **Files Claude sends you**: when the session is connected to [Remote Control](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/remote-control.md#start-a-remote-control-session) and Claude sends you files with the [`SendUserFile` tool](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference), the conversation shows a row such as **Sent report.md, chart.png**. Click a file's name to open it in the editor. The row stays visible in Focus view. Requires Claude Code v2.1.295 or later.
174174
175 A file appears as a full path you can't click, such as `\\server\share\report.md`, when its path names a network host. Claude Code doesn't link that file because opening it would contact that host and, on Windows, [could send your Windows credentials to that host](/docs/en/permissions.md#read-only-commands).
175 A file appears as a full path you can't click, such as `\\server\share\report.md`, when its path names a network host. Claude Code doesn't link that file because opening it would contact that host and, on Windows, [could send your Windows credentials to that host](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permissions.md#read-only-commands).
176176* **Context indicator**: the prompt box shows how much of Claude's context window you're using. Claude automatically compacts when needed, or you can run `/compact` manually.
177* **Prompt cache clock**: a clock icon next to the context indicator estimates how much time the conversation's [prompt cache](/docs/en/prompt-caching.md) has left before it expires. It counts down from the cache's five-minute or one-hour [lifetime](/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#cache-lifetime), and each response that uses the cache restarts the countdown. Apart from compaction, the [actions that invalidate the cache](/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#actions-that-invalidate-the-cache) don't reset the clock, so it can still show minutes left after you switch models.
177* **Prompt cache clock**: a clock icon next to the context indicator estimates how much time the conversation's [prompt cache](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/prompt-caching.md) has left before it expires. It counts down from the cache's five-minute or one-hour [lifetime](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#cache-lifetime), and each response that uses the cache restarts the countdown. Apart from compaction, the [actions that invalidate the cache](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#actions-that-invalidate-the-cache) don't reset the clock, so it can still show minutes left after you switch models.
178178 * Until the countdown runs out, the icon shows the minutes left, such as **12m**.
179 * When the countdown runs out, the minutes disappear and the icon turns red, or your theme's error color, until the next response. The cache has likely expired, so expect a slower, more expensive response to your next message while the cache rebuilds. If the five-minute lifetime keeps running out between your messages, see [Choose the TTL yourself](/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#choose-the-ttl-yourself).
180 * Right after the conversation is [compacted](/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#compacting-the-conversation), the icon also turns red without minutes until the next response, because the cache doesn't cover the compacted conversation yet.
181* **Agent map**: when the conversation includes [subagents](/docs/en/sub-agents.md), an agent count such as **2 agents** appears at the bottom of the prompt box. Its dot shows whether any subagent is working or waiting for your permission.
179 * When the countdown runs out, the minutes disappear and the icon turns red, or your theme's error color, until the next response. The cache has likely expired, so expect a slower, more expensive response to your next message while the cache rebuilds. If the five-minute lifetime keeps running out between your messages, see [Choose the TTL yourself](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#choose-the-ttl-yourself).
180 * Right after the conversation is [compacted](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/prompt-caching.md#compacting-the-conversation), the icon also turns red without minutes until the next response, because the cache doesn't cover the compacted conversation yet.
181* **Agent map**: when the conversation includes [subagents](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sub-agents.md), an agent count such as **2 agents** appears at the bottom of the prompt box. Its dot shows whether any subagent is working or waiting for your permission.
182182
183183 Click the agent count to open the agent map, which draws the conversation's subagents as a tree under the main agent, each with its status, elapsed time, and token count. Click a subagent to see its prompt and tool calls, open its read-only transcript, or stop it while it runs. Requires Claude Code v2.1.269 or later.
184184
185 The map also lists the session's other [background tasks](/docs/en/tools-reference.md#background-commands), such as background shell commands and [monitors](/docs/en/tools-reference.md#monitor-tool), below the agents. Click a row to open the task's card and stop it there.
185 The map also lists the session's other [background tasks](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference.md#background-commands), such as background shell commands and [monitors](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference.md#monitor-tool), below the agents. Click a row to open the task's card and stop it there.
186186
187187 To open the map when no agent count is showing, such as when Claude has started a background shell but no subagents, type `/tasks` in the prompt box. Background tasks in the map and the typed `/tasks` require Claude Code v2.1.277 or later.
188188
189189 With Claude Code v2.1.286 or later, when you click **Stop** or press `Esc`, the current turn ends. Background agents keep running until they finish or you stop them from the map.
190* **Extended thinking**: lets Claude spend more time reasoning through complex problems. Toggle it on via the command menu (`/`). Claude's reasoning appears in the conversation as collapsed blocks: click a block to read it, or press `Ctrl+O` to expand or collapse every thinking block in the session. See [Extended thinking](/docs/en/model-config.md#extended-thinking) for details.
190* **Extended thinking**: lets Claude spend more time reasoning through complex problems. Toggle it on via the command menu (`/`). Claude's reasoning appears in the conversation as collapsed blocks: click a block to read it, or press `Ctrl+O` to expand or collapse every thinking block in the session. See [Extended thinking](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/model-config.md#extended-thinking) for details.
191191* **Multi-line input**: press `Shift+Enter` to add a new line without sending. This also works in the "Other" free-text input of question dialogs.
192192
193193### Reference files and folders
from line 199
199199What's in @src/components/ (include a trailing slash for folders)
200200```
201201
202For large PDFs, you can ask Claude to read specific pages instead of the whole file. Ask for a single page, a range like pages 1-10, or an open-ended range like page 3 onward. Reading specific pages requires [poppler-utils](/docs/en/tools-reference.md#read-tool-behavior) on the machine where Claude Code runs.
202For large PDFs, you can ask Claude to read specific pages instead of the whole file. Ask for a single page, a range like pages 1-10, or an open-ended range like page 3 onward. Reading specific pages requires [poppler-utils](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference.md#read-tool-behavior) on the machine where Claude Code runs.
203203
204204When you select text in the editor, Claude can see your highlighted code automatically. The prompt box footer shows how many lines are selected. Press `Option+K` (Mac) / `Alt+K` (Windows/Linux) to insert an @-mention with the file path and line numbers, for example `@app.ts#5-10`. Click the **X** on the selection indicator to remove it so Claude doesn't receive the selection. The indicator comes back when you select other text.
205205
from line 224
224224
225225### Paste text
226226
227Text you paste stays visible in the prompt box, rather than collapsing to a placeholder as it does [in the terminal](/docs/en/terminal-config.md#paste-large-content). In sessions where Claude Code [marks pasted text](/docs/en/terminal-config.md#how-claude-treats-pasted-text), Claude still sees a large paste as text you pasted rather than typed.
227Text you paste stays visible in the prompt box, rather than collapsing to a placeholder as it does [in the terminal](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/terminal-config.md#paste-large-content). In sessions where Claude Code [marks pasted text](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/terminal-config.md#how-claude-treats-pasted-text), Claude still sees a large paste as text you pasted rather than typed.
228228
229Claude Code also removes [invisible Unicode characters](/docs/en/interactive-mode.md#invisible-characters-in-prompts) from text you paste into the prompt box and from anything else you send:
229Claude Code also removes [invisible Unicode characters](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/interactive-mode.md#invisible-characters-in-prompts) from text you paste into the prompt box and from anything else you send:
230230
231231* If a notice such as `Removed 3 invisible characters from the pasted text` appears when you paste, the text went in without those characters.
232232* If a notice about removed characters appears when you send, nothing was sent. The cleaned text is back in the prompt box. Send again to send the text as shown.
from line 246
246246
247247Click the **Session history** button at the top of the Claude Code panel to access your conversation history. You can search by keyword or browse by time.
248248
249Click any conversation to resume it. If the conversation is already open in another tab of the current window, clicking it switches to that tab. When a notice says the conversation is still open somewhere else, see [how to continue it in this window](#the-conversation-is-still-open-somewhere-else). If the conversation opens with no messages showing, see [why a resumed conversation is blank at first](#a-resumed-conversation-is-blank-at-first). For more on resuming sessions, see [Manage sessions](/docs/en/sessions.md).
249Click any conversation to resume it. If the conversation is already open in another tab of the current window, clicking it switches to that tab. When a notice says the conversation is still open somewhere else, see [how to continue it in this window](#the-conversation-is-still-open-somewhere-else). If the conversation opens with no messages showing, see [why a resumed conversation is blank at first](#a-resumed-conversation-is-blank-at-first). For more on resuming sessions, see [Manage sessions](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sessions.md).
250250
251251* **Session titles**: new sessions receive AI-generated titles based on your first message.
252252* **Rename and archive**: hover over a session to reveal these actions. Rename to give it a descriptive title, or archive to move it to the **Archived sessions** group at the bottom of the list.
253* **Conversations missing with [`claudeProcessWrapper`](#extension-settings) set**: update the extension to version 2.1.304 or later. The list then includes the conversations that were missing, along with sessions that `claude -p` or the [Agent SDK](/docs/en/agent-sdk/overview.md) started in this workspace.
253* **Conversations missing with [`claudeProcessWrapper`](#extension-settings) set**: update the extension to version 2.1.304 or later. The list then includes the conversations that were missing, along with sessions that `claude -p` or the [Agent SDK](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/agent-sdk/overview.md) started in this workspace.
254254
255255By default, a session with no activity for 14 days moves to **Archived sessions** automatically, unless it is open, unread, or in a [group](#organize-sessions-into-groups). Automatic archiving requires Claude Code v2.1.265 or later. To change the period or turn it off, open the [Archive Inactive Sessions setting](vscode://settings/claudeCode.archiveInactiveSessions) and select a number of days or **Never**.
256256
from line 263
263263
264264When the conversation you resume ended in plan mode, Claude Code restores plan mode. Requires Claude Code v2.1.246 or later. Claude Code doesn't restore it in these cases:
265265
266* The extension [chooses the starting permission mode](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes) from `claudeCode.initialPermissionMode` or a pick that carries over from an earlier conversation
266* The extension [chooses the starting permission mode](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes) from `claudeCode.initialPermissionMode` or a pick that carries over from an earlier conversation
267267* You have `claudeCode.claudeProcessWrapper` configured
268* A [deny rule](/docs/en/permissions.md#manage-permissions) removes the [`ExitPlanMode`](/docs/en/tools-reference) tool
268* A [deny rule](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permissions.md#manage-permissions) removes the [`ExitPlanMode`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference) tool
269269
270270#### The conversation is still open somewhere else
271271
from line 284
284284
285285### Resume cloud sessions from claude.ai
286286
287If you run [cloud sessions](/docs/en/claude-code-on-the-web.md), you can resume them directly in VS Code. This requires signing in with **Claude.ai Subscription**, not Anthropic Console.
287If you run [cloud sessions](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/claude-code-on-the-web.md), you can resume them directly in VS Code. This requires signing in with **Claude.ai Subscription**, not Anthropic Console.
288288
289289**1. Open session history**
290290
from line 304
304304>
305305> When you resume a cloud session, the extension downloads a copy of the conversation history; changes don't sync back to claude.ai.
306306
307The Web tab also lists your [Remote Control](/docs/en/remote-control.md) sessions. If you click one that ran in the folder you have open, the extension opens that local conversation instead of downloading a copy. The extension focuses the tab already showing it, if there is one. If the extension can't rule out that another Claude process has the conversation open, you get a downloaded copy instead.
307The Web tab also lists your [Remote Control](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/remote-control.md) sessions. If you click one that ran in the folder you have open, the extension opens that local conversation instead of downloading a copy. The extension focuses the tab already showing it, if there is one. If the extension can't rule out that another Claude process has the conversation open, you get a downloaded copy instead.
308308
309309If any part of a conversation fails to download, an error appears and no copy is saved. Select the session again to retry. If you select a session that has no conversation to download yet, an error tells you where to continue it instead.
310310
from line 317
317317 The dialog also breaks down what is contributing to your plan limits:
318318
319319 * **Recommendations**: suggested changes, one per row, such as `Trim ~/code/api/CLAUDE.md · 49k tokens per request`
320 * **Fix button**: to have Claude Code apply the recommendations it can, click the button under them, such as **Fix both**. To learn which rows the button acts on and what then happens in your session, see [Apply recommendations with the fix shortcut](/docs/en/costs.md#apply-recommendations-with-the-fix-shortcut). Requires Claude Code v2.1.305 or later.
320 * **Fix button**: to have Claude Code apply the recommendations it can, click the button under them, such as **Fix both**. To learn which rows the button acts on and what then happens in your session, see [Apply recommendations with the fix shortcut](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/costs.md#apply-recommendations-with-the-fix-shortcut). Requires Claude Code v2.1.305 or later.
321321
322 The button isn't shown while [Remote Control](/docs/en/remote-control.md) is connected. If a warning reads `The usage fix wasn’t fully sent. Open usage and try again.` after Remote Control connected, [disconnect Remote Control](/docs/en/remote-control.md#check-connection-status) before you try again.
322 The button isn't shown while [Remote Control](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/remote-control.md) is connected. If a warning reads `The usage fix wasn’t fully sent. Open usage and try again.` after Remote Control connected, [disconnect Remote Control](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/remote-control.md#check-connection-status) before you try again.
323323 * **Attribution**: tables of how much usage came from each skill, subagent, plugin, and MCP server
324324
325325 Use the Day and Week toggle to switch between the last 24 hours and the last 7 days. The figures are approximate and computed from local sessions on this machine, so usage from other devices or claude.ai is not included.
326* **Other sign-ins**: when plan limits don't apply to your sign-in, such as on a [third-party provider](#use-third-party-providers) or with an API key, the Usage section shows the session's own cost and token usage instead. The CLI's `/usage` shows the same totals in its [Session block](/docs/en/costs.md#track-your-costs). The sessions list in the Activity Bar also shows the active session's totals under its **Account & usage** header. Requires Claude Code v2.1.277 or later.
326* **Other sign-ins**: when plan limits don't apply to your sign-in, such as on a [third-party provider](#use-third-party-providers) or with an API key, the Usage section shows the session's own cost and token usage instead. The CLI's `/usage` shows the same totals in its [Session block](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/costs.md#track-your-costs). The sessions list in the Activity Bar also shows the active session's totals under its **Account & usage** header. Requires Claude Code v2.1.277 or later.
327327
328For more on tracking and reducing usage, see [Track your costs](/docs/en/costs.md#track-your-costs).
328For more on tracking and reducing usage, see [Track your costs](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/costs.md#track-your-costs).
329329
330330### Rewind with checkpoints
331331
from line 335
335335* **Rewind code to here**: revert file changes back to this point in the conversation while keeping the full conversation history
336336* **Fork conversation and rewind code**: start a new conversation branch and revert file changes to this point
337337
338For full details on how checkpoints work and their limitations, see [Checkpointing](/docs/en/checkpointing.md).
338For full details on how checkpoints work and their limitations, see [Checkpointing](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/checkpointing.md).
339339
340340## Customize your workflow
341341
from line 374
374374
375375To stop Claude from continuing an interrupted step after a reload, open the [Continue After Reload setting](vscode://settings/claudeCode.continueAfterReload) and uncheck it.
376376
377If you set [`CLAUDE_CODE_RESUME_INTERRUPTED_TURN`](/docs/en/env-vars#variables) or any other `CLAUDE_CODE_RESUME_` variable in VS Code's environment or in the [`environmentVariables` setting](#extension-settings), it has no effect in the panel. That's because the extension removes those variables before it starts the panel's sessions.
377If you set [`CLAUDE_CODE_RESUME_INTERRUPTED_TURN`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/env-vars#variables) or any other `CLAUDE_CODE_RESUME_` variable in VS Code's environment or in the [`environmentVariables` setting](#extension-settings), it has no effect in the panel. That's because the extension removes those variables before it starts the panel's sessions.
378378
379379#### A conversation was not reopened
380380
from line 424
424424
425425## Manage plugins
426426
427The VS Code extension includes a graphical interface for installing and managing [plugins](/docs/en/plugins/overview.md). Type `/plugins` in the prompt box to open the **Manage plugins** interface.
427The VS Code extension includes a graphical interface for installing and managing [plugins](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/overview.md). Type `/plugins` in the prompt box to open the **Manage plugins** interface.
428428
429429### Install plugins
430430
from line 434
434434
435435* **Installed plugins** appear at the top with toggle switches to enable or disable them.
436436 * If you turn off a plugin that your project's shared `.claude/settings.json` turns on, the extension asks first: **Disable for me** turns it off only for you, while **Disable for everyone** changes the shared file.
437 * A plugin that failed to load shows a short reason on its row. Click the reason for what you can do about it, including copying the full error message to look up in [Troubleshoot plugins](/docs/en/plugins/troubleshooting.md).
437 * A plugin that failed to load shows a short reason on its row. Click the reason for what you can do about it, including copying the full error message to look up in [Troubleshoot plugins](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/troubleshooting.md).
438438* **Available plugins** from your configured marketplaces appear below
439439* Search to filter plugins by name or description
440440* Click **Install** on any available plugin
from line 445
445445* **Install for this project**: shared with project collaborators (project scope)
446446* **Install locally**: only for you, only in this repository (local scope)
447447
448Once the install finishes, a form asks for any of the plugin's [configuration options](/docs/en/plugins/components.md#user-configuration) that aren't set yet. To review or change the options later, click the gear icon on the plugin's row.
448Once the install finishes, a form asks for any of the plugin's [configuration options](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/components.md#user-configuration) that aren't set yet. To review or change the options later, click the gear icon on the plugin's row.
449449
450450Sensitive text fields are masked, and a secret you saved earlier shows **(unchanged)**. Leave the field blank to keep the saved value. After you save changes, the open sessions reload their plugins and the dialog shows **Restart Claude to apply plugin changes**.
451451
452452### Uninstall plugins
453453
454Each installed row names the [scope](/docs/en/plugins/install.md#choose-an-install-scope) it's installed at. To uninstall that installation, click the row's trash icon. A dimmed trash icon marks a row you can't uninstall from this workspace, such as a plugin your organization manages or one installed for another project.
454Each installed row names the [scope](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/install.md#choose-an-install-scope) it's installed at. To uninstall that installation, click the row's trash icon. A dimmed trash icon marks a row you can't uninstall from this workspace, such as a plugin your organization manages or one installed for another project.
455455
456456The extension asks first in two cases:
457457
458* **A plugin your project's shared `.claude/settings.json` turns on**: choose **Disable for me**, which keeps the plugin installed for your collaborators, or **Uninstall for everyone**, which removes the project's installation with [`--keep-data`](/docs/en/plugins/cli-reference#what-an-uninstall-deletes-and-keeps), so the plugin's saved data directory stays. If you already turned the plugin off for yourself, the trash icon removes your own installation without the question.
458* **A plugin your project's shared `.claude/settings.json` turns on**: choose **Disable for me**, which keeps the plugin installed for your collaborators, or **Uninstall for everyone**, which removes the project's installation with [`--keep-data`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/cli-reference#what-an-uninstall-deletes-and-keeps), so the plugin's saved data directory stays. If you already turned the plugin off for yourself, the trash icon removes your own installation without the question.
459459* **Otherwise, the last installation of a plugin with saved data**: choose whether to keep or delete the data; **Keep** is the default
460460
461461### Share a plugin install link
from line 471
471471| Parameter | Description |
472472| - | - |
473473| `plugin` | The plugin's name as its marketplace lists it. Required. |
474| `marketplace` | The marketplace's [source](/docs/en/plugins/install.md#add-a-marketplace): a GitHub `owner/repo`, an `https://` URL, or a git SSH address such as `[email protected]:owner/repo.git`. Defaults to `anthropics/claude-plugins-official` when omitted. |
474| `marketplace` | The marketplace's [source](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/install.md#add-a-marketplace): a GitHub `owner/repo`, an `https://` URL, or a git SSH address such as `[email protected]:owner/repo.git`. Defaults to `anthropics/claude-plugins-official` when omitted. |
475475
476476The extension checks both values before it opens anything:
477477
from line 487
487487* **The plugin is already installed**: the dialog says so, and nothing changes.
488488* **A different marketplace with the same name is already added**: the dialog says the link's marketplace wasn't added, and nothing installs.
489489
490GitHub READMEs, issues, and some other Markdown hosts strip links whose scheme isn't `http` or `https`, so a `vscode://` link there renders as plain text. Put the URL in a code block on those hosts, as [The link renders as plain text instead of being clickable](/docs/en/deep-links.md#the-link-renders-as-plain-text-instead-of-being-clickable) describes for `claude-cli://` links.
490GitHub READMEs, issues, and some other Markdown hosts strip links whose scheme isn't `http` or `https`, so a `vscode://` link there renders as plain text. Put the URL in a code block on those hosts, as [The link renders as plain text instead of being clickable](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/deep-links.md#the-link-renders-as-plain-text-instead-of-being-clickable) describes for `claude-cli://` links.
491491
492492### Manage marketplaces
493493
from line 495
495495
496496* Enter a GitHub repo, URL, or local path to add a new marketplace
497497* Click the refresh icon to update a marketplace's plugin list
498* Click the trash icon to remove a marketplace. Removing it [uninstalls every plugin you installed from it](/docs/en/plugins/install.md#manage-marketplaces), so a confirmation names those plugins first
498* Click the trash icon to remove a marketplace. Removing it [uninstalls every plugin you installed from it](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/install.md#manage-marketplaces), so a confirmation names those plugins first
499499
500500Plugin changes you make in the dialog apply right away to the Claude Code sessions open in that VS Code window.
501501
from line 505
505505>
506506> The extension manages plugins by running the same commands as the CLI. Plugins and marketplaces you configure in the extension are also available in the CLI, and vice versa.
507507
508For more about the plugin system, see [Plugins](/docs/en/plugins/overview.md) and [Plugin marketplaces](/docs/en/plugins/overview.md).
508For more about the plugin system, see [Plugins](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/overview.md) and [Plugin marketplaces](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/overview.md).
509509
510510### Plugins that draw in the panel
511511
512A plugin that contains a [mod](/docs/en/plugins/mods/overview.md) can draw in the chat panel. Drawing requires extension version 2.1.299 or later. A session that [doesn't fetch feature flags](/docs/en/env-vars.md#features-that-need-feature-flag-fetching), such as one on Amazon Bedrock, needs 2.1.304 or later. From such a plugin you can see:
512A plugin that contains a [mod](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/plugins/mods/overview.md) can draw in the chat panel. Drawing requires extension version 2.1.299 or later. A session that [doesn't fetch feature flags](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/env-vars.md#features-that-need-feature-flag-fetching), such as one on Amazon Bedrock, needs 2.1.304 or later. From such a plugin you can see:
513513
514514* A pane beside the conversation or above the prompt box
515515* A toast or a status line above the prompt box
from line 539
539539
540540For more on working with the browser, see:
541541
542* [Enable Chrome by default](/docs/en/chrome.md#enable-chrome-by-default): have each session connect to your browser as it starts, without typing `@browser`
543* [Permission prompts in VS Code sessions](/docs/en/chrome.md#permission-prompts-in-vs-code-sessions): when Claude Code asks you before a browser action
544* [Use Claude Code with Chrome](/docs/en/chrome.md): setup instructions, the full list of capabilities, and troubleshooting
542* [Enable Chrome by default](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/chrome.md#enable-chrome-by-default): have each session connect to your browser as it starts, without typing `@browser`
543* [Permission prompts in VS Code sessions](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/chrome.md#permission-prompts-in-vs-code-sessions): when Claude Code asks you before a browser action
544* [Use Claude Code with Chrome](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/chrome.md): setup instructions, the full list of capabilities, and troubleshooting
545545
546546## Work with git
547547
548Claude Code integrates with git to help with version control workflows directly in VS Code. Ask Claude to commit changes, create pull requests, or work across branches. To start Claude in an isolated worktree with its own files and branch, see [Run parallel sessions with worktrees](/docs/en/worktrees.md).
548Claude Code integrates with git to help with version control workflows directly in VS Code. Ask Claude to commit changes, create pull requests, or work across branches. To start Claude in an isolated worktree with its own files and branch, see [Run parallel sessions with worktrees](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/worktrees.md).
549549
550550### Create commits and pull requests
551551
from line 565
565565
566566### Move a running command or subagent to the background
567567
568When a command or a [subagent](/docs/en/sub-agents.md) keeps Claude waiting longer than you want, click **Run in background** below its tool call in the conversation. Requires Claude Code v2.1.287 or later.
568When a command or a [subagent](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sub-agents.md) keeps Claude waiting longer than you want, click **Run in background** below its tool call in the conversation. Requires Claude Code v2.1.287 or later.
569569
570* **Timing**: the action appears once a command has run for about two seconds, or as soon as Claude starts waiting for a [subagent](/docs/en/sub-agents.md#run-subagents-in-foreground-or-background) it spawned from the main conversation.
571* **After you click**: Claude stops waiting and continues the turn. The command or subagent keeps running as a [background task](/docs/en/tools-reference.md#background-commands) that notifies Claude when done.
570* **Timing**: the action appears once a command has run for about two seconds, or as soon as Claude starts waiting for a [subagent](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sub-agents.md#run-subagents-in-foreground-or-background) it spawned from the main conversation.
571* **After you click**: Claude stops waiting and continues the turn. The command or subagent keeps running as a [background task](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference.md#background-commands) that notifies Claude when done.
572572
573573To check on the task or stop it in the meantime, type `/tasks` in the prompt box to open the [agent map](#use-the-prompt-box). A subagent keeps its place in the tree of agents there, and a command is listed below the agents with its [latest output on its card](#monitor-background-processes).
574574
from line 576
576576
577577By default in VS Code, subagents don't show this action. To see why for one subagent, open its card in the [agent map](#use-the-prompt-box) and read the `Spawned by` line:
578578
579* **`Spawned by the main agent`**: the subagent started in the background, so Claude isn't waiting for it and you don't need to do anything. To have Claude wait for subagents instead, see [Let Claude wait for a subagent](/docs/en/sub-agents.md#let-claude-wait-for-a-subagent).
580* **`Spawned by` names another subagent**: the action appears only for subagents the main agent spawned, not a [nested subagent](/docs/en/sub-agents.md#let-subagents-spawn-their-own-subagents) another subagent waits for. To end the nested subagent early, click **Stop agent** on its card. The waiting subagent then carries on without that result.
579* **`Spawned by the main agent`**: the subagent started in the background, so Claude isn't waiting for it and you don't need to do anything. To have Claude wait for subagents instead, see [Let Claude wait for a subagent](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sub-agents.md#let-claude-wait-for-a-subagent).
580* **`Spawned by` names another subagent**: the action appears only for subagents the main agent spawned, not a [nested subagent](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/sub-agents.md#let-subagents-spawn-their-own-subagents) another subagent waits for. To end the nested subagent early, click **Stop agent** on its card. The waiting subagent then carries on without that result.
581581
582582### Monitor background processes
583583
584584Type `/tasks` in the prompt box to open the [agent map](#use-the-prompt-box), which lists the session's background tasks, such as a dev server Claude left running as a background shell command. Click a task to open its card, where you can stop it. Requires Claude Code v2.1.277 or later.
585585
586For a background shell command, or a [monitor](/docs/en/tools-reference.md#monitor-tool) that runs a command, the card also shows the command's latest output and refreshes it while the command runs.
586For a background shell command, or a [monitor](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/tools-reference.md#monitor-tool) that runs a command, the card also shows the command's latest output and refreshes it while the command runs.
587587
588588#### See a background subagent's tool calls
589589
from line 637
637637xdg-open "vscode://anthropic.claude-code/open"
638638```
639639
640The `xdg-open` command comes from the `xdg-utils` package. If the shell reports it isn't found, see [xdg-open is not found on Linux](/docs/en/deep-links.md#xdg-open-is-not-found-on-linux).
640The `xdg-open` command comes from the `xdg-utils` package. If the shell reports it isn't found, see [xdg-open is not found on Linux](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/deep-links.md#xdg-open-is-not-found-on-linux).
641641
642642**Windows**
643643
from line 658
658658| Parameter | Description |
659659| - | - |
660660| `prompt` | Text to pre-fill in the prompt box. Must be URL-encoded. The prompt is pre-filled but not submitted automatically. |
661| `session` | A session ID to resume instead of starting a new conversation. The session must belong to the workspace currently open in VS Code. If the session isn't found, a fresh conversation starts instead. If the session is already open in a tab, that tab is focused. To capture a session ID programmatically, see [Continue conversations](/docs/en/headless.md#continue-conversations). |
661| `session` | A session ID to resume instead of starting a new conversation. The session must belong to the workspace currently open in VS Code. If the session isn't found, a fresh conversation starts instead. If the session is already open in a tab, that tab is focused. To capture a session ID programmatically, see [Continue conversations](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/headless.md#continue-conversations). |
662662
663663For example, to open a tab pre-filled with "review my changes":
664664
from line 666
666666vscode://anthropic.claude-code/open?prompt=review%20my%20changes
667667```
668668
669The extension also handles `vscode://anthropic.claude-code/install-plugin`, which [opens the plugin dialog on one plugin](#share-a-plugin-install-link). To launch a terminal session instead of a VS Code tab, use the CLI's `claude-cli://` handler. See [Launch sessions from links](/docs/en/deep-links.md).
669The extension also handles `vscode://anthropic.claude-code/install-plugin`, which [opens the plugin dialog on one plugin](#share-a-plugin-install-link). To launch a terminal session instead of a VS Code tab, use the CLI's `claude-cli://` handler. See [Launch sessions from links](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/deep-links.md).
670670
671671## Configure settings
672672
from line 673
673673You configure the extension in two places, VS Code's extension settings and the Claude Code settings file:
674674
675675* **Extension settings** in VS Code: control the extension's behavior within VS Code. Open with `Cmd+,` (Mac) or `Ctrl+,` (Windows/Linux), then go to **Extensions > Claude Code**. You can also type `/` and select **General config…** to open settings.
676* **Claude Code settings** in `~/.claude/settings.json`: shared between the extension and CLI. Use it for allowed commands, environment variables, hooks, and MCP servers. With Claude Code v2.1.283 or later, it's also one input to the permission mode conversations start in, and on earlier versions only on Pro, Max, and Team plans. [Switch permission modes](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes) lists the order. See [Settings](/docs/en/settings.md) for details.
676* **Claude Code settings** in `~/.claude/settings.json`: shared between the extension and CLI. Use it for allowed commands, environment variables, hooks, and MCP servers. With Claude Code v2.1.283 or later, it's also one input to the permission mode conversations start in, and on earlier versions only on Pro, Max, and Team plans. [Switch permission modes](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes) lists the order. See [Settings](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings.md) for details.
677677
678678> [!TIP]
679679>
from line 686
686686| Setting | Default | Description |
687687| - | - | - |
688688| `useTerminal` | `false` | Launch Claude in terminal mode instead of graphical panel |
689| `initialPermissionMode` | - | Controls approval prompts for new conversations: `default`, `plan`, `acceptEdits`, or `bypassPermissions`. `manual` is an alias for `default` and selects the mode labeled **Manual** in the mode indicator. When you leave it unset, the extension chooses the starting permission mode as described in [Switch permission modes](/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes). |
689| `initialPermissionMode` | - | Controls approval prompts for new conversations: `default`, `plan`, `acceptEdits`, or `bypassPermissions`. `manual` is an alias for `default` and selects the mode labeled **Manual** in the mode indicator. When you leave it unset, the extension chooses the starting permission mode as described in [Switch permission modes](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permission-modes.md#switch-permission-modes). |
690690| `preferredLocation` | `panel` | Where Claude opens: `sidebar` (right) or `panel` (new tab) |
691691| `lockEditorGroups` | `true` | [Lock the editor groups Claude starts for its tabs](#choose-where-claude-lives), so files you open while a Claude tab is focused go to another group. When off, the extension never locks an editor group. Requires Claude Code v2.1.274 or later |
692692| `autosave` | `true` | Auto-save files before Claude reads or writes them |
from line 694
694694| `useCtrlEnterToSend` | `false` | Use Ctrl/Cmd+Enter instead of Enter to send prompts |
695695| `scrollToBottomOnSend` | `true` | Scroll the conversation to the bottom when you send a message. When off, the conversation stays where you left it. Requires Claude Code v2.1.275 or later |
696696| `showMessageTimestamps` | `true` | Show when each message was sent. A date line marks where the day changes. Requires Claude Code v2.1.284 or later. Before v2.1.290, the default was `false` |
697| `spinnerVerbs` | `{"mode": "append", "verbs": []}` | Set the verbs the conversation spinner rotates through while a turn runs, with the same `mode` and `verbs` fields as the CLI's [`spinnerVerbs`](/docs/en/settings-reference#spinnerverbs). |
697| `spinnerVerbs` | `{"mode": "append", "verbs": []}` | Set the verbs the conversation spinner rotates through while a turn runs, with the same `mode` and `verbs` fields as the CLI's [`spinnerVerbs`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings-reference#spinnerverbs). |
698698| `enableNewConversationShortcut` | `false` | Enable Cmd/Ctrl+N to start a new conversation |
699699| `enableReopenClosedSessionShortcut` | `true` | Use Cmd/Ctrl+Shift+T to reopen the most recently closed Claude session tab. When the last closed tab wasn't a Claude session, the shortcut runs VS Code's normal reopen-closed-editor command instead. |
700700| `archiveInactiveSessions` | `14` | [Archive a session automatically](#resume-past-conversations) after this many days without activity: `1`, `2`, `7`, or `14`. Set `0` to turn it off. Requires Claude Code v2.1.265 or later |
from line 703
703703| `focusView` | `false` | Hide tool calls, tool results, and thinking behind expandable rows, leaving your prompts and Claude's responses. Claude's latest to-do list stays visible; this requires Claude Code v2.1.225 or later. You can also toggle Focus view from the command menu. Requires Claude Code v2.1.221 or later |
704704| `respectGitIgnore` | `true` | Exclude .gitignore patterns from file searches and from [selection context](#reference-files-and-folders) |
705705| `usePythonEnvironment` | `true` | Activate the workspace's Python environment when running Claude. Requires the Python extension. |
706| `environmentVariables` | `[]` | Set environment variables for the Claude process. Use Claude Code settings instead for shared config. A [`CLAUDE_CONFIG_DIR`](/docs/en/env-vars) entry applies only when its value is an absolute path; the extension doesn't expand `~` and ignores a relative value. |
706| `environmentVariables` | `[]` | Set environment variables for the Claude process. Use Claude Code settings instead for shared config. A [`CLAUDE_CONFIG_DIR`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/env-vars) entry applies only when its value is an absolute path; the extension doesn't expand `~` and ignores a relative value. |
707707| `disableLoginPrompt` | `false` | Skip authentication prompts (for third-party provider setups) |
708708| `allowDangerouslySkipPermissions` | `false` | Adds Bypass permissions to the mode selector. Use it only in sandboxes with no internet access. |
709709| `claudeProcessWrapper` | - | Executable used to launch the Claude process. The bundled binary path is passed as an argument when present. Set this to a separately installed `claude` binary if the extension build doesn't include one for your platform. |
from line 722
722722
723723Follow the setup guide for your provider:
724724
725* [Claude Code on Amazon Bedrock](/docs/en/amazon-bedrock.md)
726* [Claude Code on Google Cloud's Agent Platform](/docs/en/google-vertex-ai.md)
727* [Claude Code on Microsoft Foundry](/docs/en/microsoft-foundry.md)
725* [Claude Code on Amazon Bedrock](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/amazon-bedrock.md)
726* [Claude Code on Google Cloud's Agent Platform](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/google-vertex-ai.md)
727* [Claude Code on Microsoft Foundry](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/microsoft-foundry.md)
728728
729729These guides cover configuring your provider in `~/.claude/settings.json`, which ensures your settings are shared between the VS Code extension and the CLI.
730730
731On a third-party provider, the extension doesn't offer features that require a claude.ai account, such as plan usage bars, [voice dictation](/docs/en/voice-dictation.md), and the Web tab for [cloud sessions](#resume-cloud-sessions-from-claude-ai). For what the Account & usage dialog shows on these sign-ins, see [Check account and usage](#check-account-and-usage).
731On a third-party provider, the extension doesn't offer features that require a claude.ai account, such as plan usage bars, [voice dictation](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/voice-dictation.md), and the Web tab for [cloud sessions](#resume-cloud-sessions-from-claude-ai). For what the Account & usage dialog shows on these sign-ins, see [Check account and usage](#check-account-and-usage).
732732
733733A claude.ai sign-in left over from an earlier `/login` stays unused: the extension doesn't send it with any request.
734734
735735## Use a screen reader
736736
737The extension's chat panel works with screen readers. You don't need to turn anything on: the extension announces conversation activity for every user, with no visual change. This is separate from the CLI's opt-in [screen reader mode](/docs/en/accessibility.md), which adapts the terminal interface.
737The extension's chat panel works with screen readers. You don't need to turn anything on: the extension announces conversation activity for every user, with no visual change. This is separate from the CLI's opt-in [screen reader mode](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/accessibility.md), which adapts the terminal interface.
738738
739739Screen reader support in the chat panel requires Claude Code v2.1.236 or later.
740740
from line 742
742742
743743* **Claude's replies**: the extension announces each reply once, when it's complete, and stays silent while text streams in. Your screen reader reads code blocks as a line-count summary, reads links by their label, and reads tables cell by cell; the full reply stays readable in the transcript.
744744* **Permission requests and questions**: the extension announces a request when its permission prompt appears, naming the tool Claude wants to use. It announces in the same way when Claude asks you a question and when Claude finishes a plan and waits for your review.
745* **Status changes**: the extension announces when Claude starts working, when Claude is ready for your input, and when Claude Code starts compacting the conversation. If you send a prompt while the session's [SessionStart](/docs/en/hooks.md#sessionstart) hooks are still running, your screen reader also says "Running start-up hooks."
745* **Status changes**: the extension announces when Claude starts working, when Claude is ready for your input, and when Claude Code starts compacting the conversation. If you send a prompt while the session's [SessionStart](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/hooks.md#sessionstart) hooks are still running, your screen reader also says "Running start-up hooks."
746746* **Queued messages**: when you send a message while Claude is working, the extension announces "Message queued." for that message.
747* **Errors and model prompts**: the extension announces errors in the conversation, and announces when the [usage-credits consent prompt](/docs/en/model-config.md#fable-and-usage-credits) or the [flagged-request prompt](/docs/en/model-config.md#ask-before-switching) appears.
747* **Errors and model prompts**: the extension announces errors in the conversation, and announces when the [usage-credits consent prompt](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/model-config.md#fable-and-usage-credits) or the [flagged-request prompt](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/model-config.md#ask-before-switching) appears.
748748
749749While Claude works, your screen reader reads a text label in place of the progress spinner's animation.
750750
from line 770
770770
771771## VS Code extension vs. Claude Code CLI
772772
773Claude Code is available as both a VS Code extension (graphical panel) and a CLI (command-line interface in the terminal). Some features are only available in the CLI. If you need a CLI-only feature, run `claude` in VS Code's integrated terminal. This requires the [standalone CLI install](/docs/en/setup.md): the extension does not add `claude` to your PATH. See [Run CLI in VS Code](#run-cli-in-vs-code).
773Claude Code is available as both a VS Code extension (graphical panel) and a CLI (command-line interface in the terminal). Some features are only available in the CLI. If you need a CLI-only feature, run `claude` in VS Code's integrated terminal. This requires the [standalone CLI install](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/setup.md): the extension does not add `claude` to your PATH. See [Run CLI in VS Code](#run-cli-in-vs-code).
774774
775775| Feature | CLI | VS Code Extension |
776776| - | - | - |
777| Commands and skills | [All](/docs/en/commands.md) | Subset (type `/` to see available) |
777| Commands and skills | [All](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/commands.md) | Subset (type `/` to see available) |
778778| MCP server config | Yes | Yes: [add and manage servers](#connect-to-external-tools-with-mcp) with `/mcp` in the chat panel |
779779| Checkpoints | Yes | Yes |
780780| `!` Bash shortcut | Yes | No |
from line 784
784784
785785To use the CLI while staying in VS Code, press `` Ctrl+` `` on Windows/Linux or `` Cmd+` `` on Mac to open the integrated terminal, then run `claude`. The CLI automatically integrates with your IDE for features like diff viewing and diagnostic sharing. If you use an external terminal, run `/ide` inside Claude Code to connect it to VS Code.
786786
787Installing the extension does not put `claude` on your shell PATH. The extension bundles a private copy of the CLI for its chat panel, but typing `claude` in a terminal requires the [standalone CLI install](/docs/en/setup.md). Run the install once and the commands on this page, including `claude mcp add` and `claude --resume`, work in any terminal. If `claude` is still not found after installing, [verify your PATH](/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#verify-your-path).
787Installing the extension does not put `claude` on your shell PATH. The extension bundles a private copy of the CLI for its chat panel, but typing `claude` in a terminal requires the [standalone CLI install](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/setup.md). Run the install once and the commands on this page, including `claude mcp add` and `claude --resume`, work in any terminal. If `claude` is still not found after installing, [verify your PATH](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#verify-your-path).
788788
789789### Switch between extension and CLI
790790
from line 797
797797To manage MCP servers without leaving VS Code, type `/mcp` in the chat panel. From the dialog that opens, you can:
798798
799799* Add servers
800* Remove servers saved at the local, user, or project [scope](/docs/en/mcp.md#mcp-installation-scopes)
800* Remove servers saved at the local, user, or project [scope](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/mcp.md#mcp-installation-scopes)
801801* Enable or disable servers
802802* Reconnect to a server
803803* Manage OAuth authentication
from line 817
817817
818818> [!NOTE]
819819>
820> To find servers to connect, see [Find and build MCP servers](/docs/en/mcp.md#find-and-build-mcp-servers).
820> To find servers to connect, see [Find and build MCP servers](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/mcp.md#find-and-build-mcp-servers).
821821
822822## The built-in IDE MCP server
823823
from line 831
831831
832832**Selection and open-file context.** While connected, the CLI includes your current editor selection and the path of the active file as context on each prompt you send. The transcript shows a `⧉ Selected N lines from <file>` line when this happens. These cases change that context:
833833
834* **Queued messages**: if you [queue a message while Claude works](/docs/en/interactive-mode.md#queue-messages-while-claude-works), it keeps the selection you had when you pressed `Enter`, whatever you select afterward.
835* **Sensitive files**: to exclude a sensitive file such as `.env`, add a [`Read` deny rule](/docs/en/permissions#read-and-edit) for its path. A matching deny rule prevents both the selected text and the open-file notice for that file from reaching Claude.
834* **Queued messages**: if you [queue a message while Claude works](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/interactive-mode.md#queue-messages-while-claude-works), it keeps the selection you had when you pressed `Enter`, whatever you select afterward.
835* **Sensitive files**: to exclude a sensitive file such as `.env`, add a [`Read` deny rule](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permissions#read-and-edit) for its path. A matching deny rule prevents both the selected text and the open-file notice for that file from reaching Claude.
836836* **Attach Open File turned off**: if you turn off the [Attach Open File setting](#extension-settings), the CLI receives the active file's path only while you have text selected in it.
837837
838838**Transport and authentication.** The server binds to `127.0.0.1` on a random port in the range 10000–65535, and the port is not configurable. The transport and the auth token work as follows:
from line 865
865865}
866866```
867867
868A `Read` deny rule covers neither tool, so block them by name with a [deny rule](/docs/en/permissions.md#mcp) as the example does.
868A `Read` deny rule covers neither tool, so block them by name with a [deny rule](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/permissions.md#mcp) as the example does.
869869
870870**Jupyter execution always asks first.** `mcp__ide__executeCode` can't run anything silently. Each call goes through these steps:
871871
from line 885
885885
886886| What you see | Where to go |
887887| - | - |
888| `API Error: 403 Request not allowed` after you sign in | [403 Forbidden after login](/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#403-forbidden-after-login) |
889| You're asked to sign in again after you already signed in | [Not logged in or token expired](/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#not-logged-in-or-token-expired) |
890| Cloud provider credentials work in your terminal but not in the extension | [Bedrock, Agent Platform, or Foundry credentials not loading](/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#bedrock-agent-platform-or-foundry-credentials-not-loading) |
891| `SSL certificate verification failed` or `Self-signed certificate detected` | [SSL certificate errors](/docs/en/errors.md#ssl-certificate-errors) |
888| `API Error: 403 Request not allowed` after you sign in | [403 Forbidden after login](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#403-forbidden-after-login) |
889| You're asked to sign in again after you already signed in | [Not logged in or token expired](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#not-logged-in-or-token-expired) |
890| Cloud provider credentials work in your terminal but not in the extension | [Bedrock, Agent Platform, or Foundry credentials not loading](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/troubleshoot-install.md#bedrock-agent-platform-or-foundry-credentials-not-loading) |
891| `SSL certificate verification failed` or `Self-signed certificate detected` | [SSL certificate errors](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/errors.md#ssl-certificate-errors) |
892892| `Dictation error: WebSocket error:` followed by a certificate error such as `unable to get local issuer certificate`, or `Remote server is not connected` on the Web tab | [Dictation or the Web tab fails behind a TLS-inspecting proxy](#dictation-or-the-web-tab-fails-behind-a-tls-inspecting-proxy) |
893| `Claude Code process exited with code 1`, or another code | [Claude Code process exited with code N](/docs/en/errors.md#claude-code-process-exited-with-code-n) |
894| `Could not locate the Claude CLI on PATH` | [Could not locate the Claude CLI on PATH](/docs/en/errors.md#could-not-locate-the-claude-cli-on-path) |
895| `The connection to Claude Code ended before this message completed` | [The connection to Claude Code ended before this message completed](/docs/en/errors.md#the-connection-to-claude-code-ended-before-this-message-completed) |
893| `Claude Code process exited with code 1`, or another code | [Claude Code process exited with code N](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/errors.md#claude-code-process-exited-with-code-n) |
894| `Could not locate the Claude CLI on PATH` | [Could not locate the Claude CLI on PATH](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/errors.md#could-not-locate-the-claude-cli-on-path) |
895| `The connection to Claude Code ended before this message completed` | [The connection to Claude Code ended before this message completed](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/errors.md#the-connection-to-claude-code-ended-before-this-message-completed) |
896896| `claude` isn't found in VS Code's integrated terminal | [Run CLI in VS Code](#run-cli-in-vs-code) |
897897
898898### Extension won't install
from line 925
925925
926926### Ctrl+J adds a new line in the prompt box
927927
928To stop `Ctrl+J` from adding a new line in the prompt box, [unbind the key](/docs/en/keybindings.md#unbind-default-shortcuts) in Claude Code's `keybindings.json` file. The extension reads this file in version 2.1.309 or later, so update an older extension in the Extensions view first.
928To stop `Ctrl+J` from adding a new line in the prompt box, [unbind the key](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/keybindings.md#unbind-default-shortcuts) in Claude Code's `keybindings.json` file. The extension reads this file in version 2.1.309 or later, so update an older extension in the Extensions view first.
929929
930930This example is the whole file with the one entry that unbinds the key, `"ctrl+j": null` in a `Chat` block:
931931
from line 997
997997
998998### Dictation or the Web tab fails behind a TLS-inspecting proxy
999999
1000When dictation or the Web tab fails with a certificate error such as `unable to get local issuer certificate`, set [`NODE_EXTRA_CA_CERTS`](/docs/en/network-config#custom-ca-certificates) in the `env` block of `~/.claude/settings.json`. Set it to the path of a PEM file with your proxy's root CA certificate, which your IT team can give you. That error text is on the microphone button or in the extension's logs:
1000When dictation or the Web tab fails with a certificate error such as `unable to get local issuer certificate`, set [`NODE_EXTRA_CA_CERTS`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/network-config#custom-ca-certificates) in the `env` block of `~/.claude/settings.json`. Set it to the path of a PEM file with your proxy's root CA certificate, which your IT team can give you. That error text is on the microphone button or in the extension's logs:
10011001
10021002* **Dictation**: the microphone button shows the error text after `Dictation error: WebSocket error:`.
10031003* **Web tab**: the tab that lists [cloud sessions](#resume-cloud-sessions-from-claude-ai) shows `Remote server is not connected` without the error text. To read it in the logs:
from line 1043
104310432. Search for "Claude Code"
104410443. Click **Uninstall**
10451045
1046If you run `claude` in a VS Code integrated terminal, Claude Code reinstalls the extension automatically. To keep it uninstalled, turn off **Auto-install IDE extension** in `/config`, or set [`autoInstallIdeExtension`](/docs/en/settings-reference#autoinstallideextension) to `false`. You can also set the [`CLAUDE_CODE_IDE_SKIP_AUTO_INSTALL`](/docs/en/env-vars) environment variable to `1`.
1046If you run `claude` in a VS Code integrated terminal, Claude Code reinstalls the extension automatically. To keep it uninstalled, turn off **Auto-install IDE extension** in `/config`, or set [`autoInstallIdeExtension`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings-reference#autoinstallideextension) to `false`. You can also set the [`CLAUDE_CODE_IDE_SKIP_AUTO_INSTALL`](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/env-vars) environment variable to `1`.
10471047
10481048To also remove extension data and reset all settings, delete the extension's storage directory for your platform.
10491049
from line 1065
10651065Remove-Item -Recurse -Force "$env:APPDATA\Code\User\globalStorage\anthropic.claude-code"
10661066```
10671067
1068For additional help, see the [troubleshooting guide](/docs/en/troubleshooting.md).
1068For additional help, see the [troubleshooting guide](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/troubleshooting.md).
10691069
10701070## Next steps
10711071
10721072Now that you have Claude Code set up in VS Code:
10731073
1074* [Explore common workflows](/docs/en/common-workflows.md) to get the most out of Claude Code
1075* [Set up MCP servers](/docs/en/mcp.md) to extend Claude's capabilities with external tools. Add and manage them with `/mcp` in the chat panel.
1076* [Configure Claude Code settings](/docs/en/settings.md) to customize allowed commands, hooks, and more. These settings are shared between the extension and CLI.
1077* [Review security safeguards](/docs/en/security.md) and [data usage](/docs/en/data-usage.md) for Claude Code
1074* [Explore common workflows](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/common-workflows.md) to get the most out of Claude Code
1075* [Set up MCP servers](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/mcp.md) to extend Claude's capabilities with external tools. Add and manage them with `/mcp` in the chat panel.
1076* [Configure Claude Code settings](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/settings.md) to customize allowed commands, hooks, and more. These settings are shared between the extension and CLI.
1077* [Review security safeguards](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/security.md) and [data usage](https://code.claude.com/docs/en/data-usage.md) for Claude Code
10781078
No line in this hunk matches that.