Claude AI for Beginners (Plus Claude Code)

Claude is Anthropic's AI assistant. Here's how to get great answers from day one, and how developers use Claude Code in the terminal.

1. Start

Sign up at claude.ai (free plan available) or install the desktop and mobile apps.

claude.ai

2. Give it context

Upload files or paste text, say who it's for and what format you want back.

Summarize this report for my manager in 5 bullets.

3. Projects

Create a Project for ongoing work and add your files and instructions once; every chat in it uses them.

Projects > New project

4. Claude Code (developers)

Install it, open your project folder and describe the change you want. It reads your code and asks before editing.

npm install -g @anthropic-ai/claude-code
cd my-project && claude

FAQ

Is Claude free?

There's a free plan with usage limits; paid plans add more usage and features.

Can I trust everything it says?

No AI is always right. Check facts, numbers and code before you rely on them.