I found a fantastic YouTube video that completely changed how I use Claude Code, and I had to share it. If you want to work with AI in a more structured, efficient, and bug-free way, this is a must-watch.
The video breaks down eight powerful strategies that go far beyond basic prompting. These are pro-level techniques for building robust applications with fewer headaches. Below, I’ve summarized the key takeaways from the video to serve as a quick reference guide.
1. Define the Rules: Use a `claude.md` Constitution
The `claude.md` file is a powerful feature that lets you define a set of rules and guidelines for Claude to follow on every task. By creating this file in your project’s root directory, you establish a “constitution” for your AI assistant, ensuring consistent behavior.
Example `claude.md` Rules:
- First, think through the problem, read the codebase for relevant files, and write a plan to `tasks/todo.md`.
- The plan should have a list of todo items that you can check off as you complete them.
- Before you begin working, check in with me and I will verify the plan.
- Then, begin working on the todo items, marking them as complete as you go.
- Please every step of the way just give me a high-level explanation of what changes you made.
- Make every task and code change you do as simple as possible. We want to avoid making any massive or complex changes. Every change should impact as little code as possible. Everything is about simplicity.
- Finally, add a review section to the `todo.md` file with a summary of the changes you made and any other relevant information.
2. Plan First, Then Execute: The Two-Model Trick
Always use “Plan Mode” (`Shift+Tab` twice) to have the AI outline its execution plan before starting. This improves accuracy and prevents errors. The video’s pro-tip is a two-model strategy for this:
- Opus Model (`/mod opus`): Use for the initial planning phase to get a high-quality, strategic blueprint.
- Sonnet Model (`/model sonnet`): Switch to this faster, more cost-effective model for the actual code execution.
3. Commit Often: Use GitHub as a Time Machine
Since Claude doesn’t have an “undo” button, frequent Git commits are your safety net. The recommended workflow is to commit your changes after every successful step. This creates reliable checkpoints you can revert to if the AI goes off track.
Example Instruction for Your AI:
“After each step, please commit the changes with a descriptive message. This will allow us to revert to a previous state if something goes wrong.”
Essential Git Commands:
# Stage all changes
git add .
# Commit with a clear message
git commit -m "feat: Add user authentication"
# Revert to a previous commit if needed
git reset --hard <commit-hash>4. Use Images as Blueprints: Visual-Driven Development
Leverage Claude’s ability to analyze images for both UI development and bug squashing. This visual approach leads to faster and more accurate results.
- UI Inspiration: Feed Claude screenshots of apps you admire to give it a clear visual target.
- Bug Squashing: Instead of describing a visual glitch, take a screenshot and ask Claude to “fix this.”
5. Keep it Fresh: Use `/clear` as a Reset Button
AI models can “hallucinate” or get stuck in a cluttered conversation history. Use the `/clear` command ruthlessly after each significant task to ensure a focused, accurate, and efficient AI partner.
6. Audit for Security: Don’t Trust, Verify
AI-generated code is not inherently secure. After building any feature, run a security audit with a specific prompt to catch potential vulnerabilities.
Security Audit Prompt:
“Please check through all the code you just wrote and make sure it follows the security best practices. Make sure no sensitive information is in the front end and there are no vulnerabilities people can exploit.”
7. Learn Continuously: Ask Claude to Teach You
Continuously learn from the code Claude generates. After a feature is complete, ask the AI to explain its work to deepen your own understanding.
Learning Prompt:
“Please explain the functionality and code you just built out in detail. Walk me through what you changed and how it works. Act like you’re a senior engineer teaching me code.”
8. Maximize Your Time: The Dual-AI Workflow
Turn passive waiting time into productive thinking time. While Claude is generating code, use a separate chat with another AI to brainstorm new features, refine your strategy, or plan your next steps.
Conclusion: You Are the Conductor
These eight strategies transform you from a passive user into an active conductor of your AI orchestra. You set the rules, guide the process, and learn continuously.
Your Call to Action: Pick one of these strategies and try it this week. The `claude.md` file is a great place to start for immediate results.
What are your own productivity hacks for working with AI? Share them in the comments below!
Source:
8 Claude Code Tricks To 10x Your Productivity & Code Quality – YouTube (July 12, 2025)
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