Glossary

Application Programming Interface - a way for programs to talk to each other. Claude Code uses the Anthropic API to communicate with Claude.

A parallel version of your code. You can work on new features in a branch without affecting the main code until you're ready.

A VS Code extension that integrates Claude AI directly into your development workflow, allowing you to ask questions, generate code, and get help without leaving your editor.

A markdown file placed in your project root that gives Claude context about your project, including coding standards, architecture decisions, and specific instructions.

A way to interact with software by typing commands instead of clicking buttons. Git and many developer tools use CLIs.

To download a copy of a repository from GitHub (or another remote) to your local computer.

VS Code's "search for anything" feature. Open it with Cmd+Shift+P (Mac) or Ctrl+Shift+P (Windows) to find any command.

A saved snapshot of your project at a point in time. Like a save point in a video game - you can always go back to it.

The amount of text (code, conversation, files) that Claude can "see" and consider at once. Larger context windows allow Claude to understand more of your project.

A package or library that your project needs to run. Listed in files like package.json (JavaScript) or requirements.txt (Python).

A named value that programs can read. Often used for configuration like API keys. Set differently on Mac vs Windows.

An add-on that adds features to VS Code. Claude Code is an extension. You install them from the VS Code marketplace.

A terminal/command line built into VS Code. You can run commands without leaving the editor.

JavaScript Object Notation - a common format for storing and exchanging data. You'll see it in config files and API responses.

A simple way to format text using symbols. # for headings, **bold**, *italic*. Used in README files and CLAUDE.md.

A protocol that allows Claude to connect to external tools and data sources, extending its capabilities beyond the default features.

To combine changes from one branch into another. Often used to add new features into the main branch.

A tool that installs and manages dependencies. npm/yarn for JavaScript, pip for Python, Homebrew for Mac system tools.

The location of a file or folder on your computer. Like an address. Example: /Users/you/projects/my-app

To download and integrate changes from a remote repository into your local repository.

A way to propose changes on GitHub. Others can review your code before it gets merged into the main branch.

To upload your local commits to a remote repository like GitHub.

A version of your repository hosted somewhere else, usually on GitHub. "Origin" is the default name for your main remote.

A folder that Git tracks for changes. Contains all your project files plus hidden Git data that records the history of changes.

The program that interprets your terminal commands. Common shells include Bash (Mac/Linux) and PowerShell (Windows).

Special commands in Claude Code that start with "/" and perform specific actions, like /help, /clear, or /compact.

A secure way to authenticate with GitHub without typing your password every time. Consists of a public and private key pair.

A text-based interface for running commands on your computer. Also called command line, shell, or console.

Visual Studio Code - a free, popular code editor from Microsoft. It's where you'll write and edit your code.

The folder (or folders) you have open in VS Code. Your project's "home base" in the editor.