Claude Code Essentials

Claude Code Essentials is the starter kit I wish existed when I first opened Claude inside VS Code. These lessons capture the shortcuts, workflows, and mental models that make the extension feel like an extension of your editor instead of a detached chat window. You’ll see how the IDE bridge provides context, how to move fast in the Claude terminal, and how to give the model precisely what it needs without drowning it in noise.

Each module is a focused walkthrough: installing the extension, targeting the proper context, automating tasks with slash commands, managing token costs, protecting secrets, organizing shared settings, customizing your status line, and keeping a living CLAUDE.md. Dip into whichever lesson solves your current problem or watch them in order for a full onboarding path.

New lessons will be added here over time as Claude Code evolves. Check back for fresh tips, deeper dives, and updates that help you stay confident in this constantly improving environment.