Get started with Claude Code

Claude Code is an AI assistant that lives in your terminal and works directly inside your projects. Here's how to get up and running in a few minutes.

What is Claude Code?

Claude Code runs in your terminal alongside your project files. Instead of copying and pasting code into a chat window, Claude Code works directly in your codebase — reading files, making edits, running commands, and following the rules you set. It reads your CLAUDE.md file at the start of every session so it always knows your project without you having to re-explain it.

What you'll need

  • Node.js version 18 or higher — Download Node.js if you don't have it. Run node --version in your terminal to check.
  • A terminal — Terminal on Mac, Command Prompt or PowerShell on Windows, or any Linux terminal.
  • An Anthropic API key — You'll need an account at console.anthropic.com. API usage is pay-as-you-go and inexpensive for most developers.

Install Claude Code

Open your terminal and run this command:

npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code

The -g flag installs Claude Code globally so you can use it in any project on your computer.

Connect your API key

Navigate to your project folder in the terminal, then run:

claude

The first time you run it, Claude Code will ask for your Anthropic API key. Paste it in and press Enter. You only need to do this once.

Set up your project

Claude Code works best when it knows about your project. You have two options:

Option A — Let Claude Code scan your project automatically

Run this command inside your project folder:

/init

Claude Code will look at your files and generate a starter CLAUDE.md for you.

Option B — Build a CLAUDE.md with our wizard

Use our CLAUDE.md Builder to answer a few questions and get a complete, customized CLAUDE.md file ready to drop into your project.

You're ready to go

Once your CLAUDE.md is in place, start a session by running claude in your project folder. Claude Code reads your file and gets to work — no re-explaining your stack or your rules.

Next steps:

Build your CLAUDE.md → Build a Skill →