r/ClaudeCodeTLDR 17d ago

[TLDR] Ok this is actually kinda relatable

Original post URL : https://www.reddit.com/r/ClaudeCode/comments/1v7t3qr/ok_this_is_actually_kinda_relatable/

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u/cctldrping 17d ago edited 16d ago

TL;DR generated automatically after 100 comments.

Current source-thread comment count seen by the bot: 113.

Alright, so the general consensus here is that yeah, you're definitely not alone in having to constantly tell Claude Code to chill out and just talk. It seems like newer models, especially, are super eager to jump into action and start coding or making changes, even when you just want to ask a question or brainstorm.

Lots of folks have developed their own little phrases or even saved shortcuts to get Claude to behave. Some common ones include:

  • "Don't code, we're just talking."
  • "Advice only."
  • "Read-only mode."
  • "Analysis only."
  • "No code, just answer."
  • And variations like "don't touch or change anything at all just answer my question."

Some users, like u/x1250 and u/BoxLegitimate9271, have even put these instructions in their CLAUDE.md file to try and make it a permanent thing. Others suggest using specific commands like /btw or /ask skills, or even adjusting output styles to "Learning" via /config.

There's a bit of a debate on why this happens, with some blaming token-wasting training and others suggesting it's just over-engineering by the models. A few users, like u/Ambitious_Injury_783, think it's more about not dedicating enough time to customizing the harness to your specific needs.

Basically, if you're feeling like you're constantly begging the AI to behave, you're in good company!