claude-code-slash-commands-discovery

name: claude-code-slash-commands-discovery description: Discovers all available slash commands in Claude Code by typing a forward slash in the terminal. Essential technique for beginners to understand the full command palette and workflow options. Triggered when starting with Claude Code or exploring available commands. source: 10 Claude Code tips I wish I knew from the start + https://youtu.be/BEIulrjHzMI?si=JiZ_XdfyLiw9nCGP generated_by: SkillJack (skilljacked.com)

Claude Code Slash Commands Discovery

Access the complete command palette by typing a forward slash in the terminal.

Quick Start

1. Open Claude Code terminal
2. Type / (forward slash)
3. View all available slash commands

Core Workflow

When starting with Claude Code or exploring capabilities:

1. Type / in the terminal
2. Browse the complete list of available commands
3. Select commands to understand their functions
4. Test key commands like /compact and /security

When conversation gets long:

1. Use /compact to clear conversation history while keeping summary
2. Optionally add custom summarization instructions: /compact focus on error handling patterns

Techniques

Command Discovery Pattern

• Always start exploration with / to see full palette
• Use slash commands instead of typing out full requests
• Explore available options before writing custom prompts

Context Management

• Use /compact when chat history becomes unwieldy
• Add specific instructions: /compact focus on [specific area]
• Apply before hitting token limits to preserve important context

Anti-Patterns

• NEVER assume you know all available commands without checking
• NEVER let conversations grow indefinitely without using /compact
• NEVER write long custom prompts when slash commands exist

Edge Cases & Error Handling

• If slash command palette doesn't appear, ensure cursor is in terminal
• Some commands may require specific project contexts to be available
• Custom summarization in /compact is optional but improves focus