Four setup steps
- Install the Claude desktop app.
- Tell Claude about you in your instructions.
- Connect a work folder.
- Check your memory settings.
Write your instructions
Your instructions apply to every conversation. Include:
- Who you are and who you write for
- How you like things written (tone, length, style)
- The formats you want back (doc, bullet summary, table)
Connect a work folder
- Claude can only see the folders you connect.
- It runs code in a separate, isolated sandbox.
- It asks your permission before deleting anything.
Use memory
- Say "Remember that our launch is November 12th" and it sticks.
- Say "Forget the old positioning doc" and it's gone.
- You can view, edit or pause memory any time in Settings.
Recap
Instructions, folders and memory mean every task starts already briefed.
Your mission: install the app, write your instructions, and connect one work folder.
Next lesson: projects, one workspace per work stream.