Claude Code: give it a pass/fail check and let it iterate
The Claude Code team's #1 tip: hand the agent a test, build or linter it can run, so it fixes its own mistakes before you see them.
Coding tips
Use plan mode before multi-file changes in Claude Code
Press Shift+Tab to enter plan mode: Claude reads and proposes a plan without editing files. Refine the plan, then let it execute.
Cursor project rules must be .mdc files, or they're ignored
Rules in .cursor/rules need the .mdc extension plus frontmatter. A plain .md file there is silently skipped; use AGENTS.md for plain markdown.
Keep CLAUDE.md short (under ~200 lines)
CLAUDE.md loads into every session. Bloated files get ignored, so keep only always-relevant facts and move procedures into skills.
Keep Cursor rules minimal; move occasional workflows to skills
Every rule costs context in every chat. Cursor recommends short, specific rules (<500 lines) and skills for things you need only sometimes.