# Claude Code Tutorial #1 - Introduction & Setup

2025-12-16 Tom Brewer

#claude-code #ai-agents #tutorial #ai-development

Table of Contents

Claude Code Tutorial #1 - Introduction & Setup

These notes are based on the YouTube video by Net Ninja

Introduction to Claude Code

Claude Code is an AI-powered agentic coding tool created by Anthropic, used to analyze, plan, write, and edit code within projects. It lives directly in the terminal and can integrate with existing development workflows without forcing a switch in IDE. Claude Code can understand the code base of a project and generate tailored code, and it can work independently on simple issues and bugs. For more information on its capabilities and potential, see Claude Code’s New Native Skills Just Changed Everything.

Key Features and Benefits

Integrates with existing development workflow
Understands the code base of a project and generates tailored code
Can work independently on simple issues and bugs
Supports custom commands and advanced tools for file access
Provides raw model access for flexible workflows, including git interactions

Setting Up Claude Code

To set up Claude Code, follow these steps:

Access Claude Code through Anthropic’s platform (requires Claude Pro/Team subscription, ~$20/user/month)
Install Claude Code by following the official Anthropic documentation (e.g., download and run the binary)
Navigate to a project and run claude to start a Claude session
Answer the initial questions, including choosing a mode and logging in with your subscription

Using Claude Code

Claude Code can be used to generate code, provide summaries of projects, and assist with coding tasks
It can be integrated with your development environment using Anthropic’s API or command-line tools
For IDE integration, consider using Anthropic’s Claude.dev tools or API
For optimal results, consider following Claude Code best practices to get the most out of the tool

🔗 See Also: The EASIEST way to build iOS apps with Claude Code (Opus 4.5)

Project Setup and Configuration

Create a new branch by prompting Claude directly (e.g., “Create new branch and switch”) using its git tools
Use Claude’s git knowledge and bash commands to manage your project
Use the --agent flag to run subagents for specific tasks

Next Steps

In the next lesson, we will cover making actual code edits and adding memory to Claude using a local file (e.g., CLAUDE.md).

Summary

Claude Code is a powerful tool for automating and assisting with coding tasks. By following the setup and configuration steps, developers can integrate Claude Code into their workflow and start using its features to generate code, provide summaries, and assist with coding tasks. With its ability to understand the code base of a project and generate tailored code, Claude Code has the potential to increase productivity and improve code quality.

💡 Related: Claude Code Design V3 is ABSOLUTELY INSANE (Plugins) for more information on advanced features and tools.

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# Frequently Asked Questions

What is Claude Code and how can it be used in my development workflow?

Claude Code is an AI-powered agentic coding tool that can analyze, plan, write, and edit code within projects. It can be used to generate tailored code, work independently on simple issues and bugs, and integrate with existing development workflows. By following the setup and configuration steps, developers can harness the power of Claude Code to increase productivity and improve code quality.

How do I set up Claude Code and get started with using its features?

To set up Claude Code, access it through Anthropic's platform with a Claude Pro/Team subscription, then install it by following the official documentation. Navigate to a project and run `claude` to start a session, answering initial questions and logging in with your subscription. This will allow you to start using Claude Code's features, such as generating code and assisting with coding tasks.

What are the benefits of using Claude Code in my development workflow?

Claude Code provides several benefits, including integrating with existing development workflows, understanding the code base of a project, and generating tailored code. It can also work independently on simple issues and bugs, and supports custom commands and advanced tools for file access. By using Claude Code, developers can increase productivity, improve code quality, and streamline their workflow.

How can I integrate Claude Code with my development environment and IDE?

Claude Code can be integrated with your development environment using Anthropic's API or command-line tools. For IDE integration, consider using Anthropic's Claude.dev tools or API. Additionally, Claude Code can be used with git interactions, allowing for seamless integration with your existing workflow. By integrating Claude Code, you can leverage its features and capabilities to enhance your development experience.

What are some best practices for getting the most out of Claude Code?

To get the most out of Claude Code, consider following best practices such as creating a new branch by prompting Claude directly, using Claude's git knowledge and bash commands to manage your project, and running subagents for specific tasks. Additionally, refer to the official documentation and resources, such as the Claude Code best practices guide, to optimize your usage and workflow.

What are the system requirements and subscription costs for using Claude Code?

Claude Code requires a Claude Pro/Team subscription, which costs approximately $20/user/month. To use Claude Code, you will need to access it through Anthropic's platform and install it by following the official documentation. Make sure to review the system requirements and subscription details before getting started with Claude Code.