Give Context
Background helps Claude help you
Context is like giving Claude a map before asking for directions. Let me show you!
1The Idea
Context is the background information that helps Claude understand your situation. The more relevant context you provide, the more tailored the response.
2See the Difference
Bad Example
"How do I fix this error?"
What error? What programming language? What were you trying to do? Claude is completely in the dark here.
Good Example
"I'm learning Python and trying to read a CSV file. I'm getting this error: 'FileNotFoundError: data.csv'. The file is in my Downloads folder and my script is on my Desktop. How do I fix this?"
Now Claude knows: your skill level (learning), language (Python), goal (read CSV), error message, and file locations. It can give you exactly the right help!
💡Clau-chan's Tip
Pretend Claude knows nothing about your situation. What would a helpful stranger need to know to help you?
3Practice
Try It Yourself!
Add context to this: 'Why isn't my code working?'
Ready to move on?