A simple workflow to reduce Claude token use in large codebases
Claude can work more efficiently on a large when it receives only the context it needs. A stable project map, such as a file, can list the folder structure, important files, run commands, and project rules.
Each request should have a narrow task scope so Claude knows the exact goal and which parts of the code it should touch. When a session gets long or moves to a new chat, a short session handoff should capture the current state, files already checked, and next steps.
Claude should list the files it needs before reading them, and it should use search before scanning whole files. This is meant to reduce token use and keep , s, and large-project work more focused.
Key points
- Keep a project map in with structure, key files, commands, and rules.
- Define a narrow task scope before asking Claude to work.
- Use a session handoff to carry over the current state and next steps.
- Ask Claude to name the files it needs before reading them.
- Prefer search before full file scans to reduce token use.