Claude Codecontext-managementbuilt-in

/compact

Free up context by summarizing the conversation so far. Optionally pass focus instructions for the summary.

Syntax

/compact [instructions]

Example

/compact focus on the auth changes we made

About

Replaces earlier turns with a concise summary, freeing context while keeping critical details. Optionally pass focus instructions to guide what the summary emphasizes. Use after long exchanges so Claude retains key points without filling the context window.

When to use

  • After a long debugging session before starting a new sub-task
  • When the context window is getting full mid-task
  • Keeping focus on current work without losing prior decisions

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