300 Claude Code Cheat Codes I Use Every Day in 2026: Slash Commands, Shortcuts and Shortcodes for Every Industry
Every morning I open the terminal before I open my email. I type claude, then a short code of five or six letters, and the work that used to eat my first hour starts on its own. These are my Claude Code cheat codes. Some came built into Claude Code. Most I built myself over many late nights, one small frustration at a time. Today I am giving you all 300 of them, with the exact steps to set them up and use them, whether you write code, run a shop, teach a class or run a small agency from your bedroom like I once did.
I am Siva Charan, the person behind Ethical Founder. If you read my Claude Code beginner’s guide, you already know Claude Code is the first tool I open each morning. This guide goes one level deeper. It is the cheat sheet I wish someone had handed me on day one, plus the hundreds of shortcodes I now use for clients in India, the US and the UK.
Table of Contents
Why I Started Collecting Claude Code Cheat Codes
It started with a mistake. I was fixing a client’s WordPress theme at 2 AM and typed the same long instruction for the fourth time that week: check the mobile layout, find what breaks, fix only that, do not touch anything else. The fourth time, I made a typo and Claude went off in the wrong direction. I lost forty minutes undoing it.
That night I saved the instruction as a file and gave it a short name. The next day I typed /fix-mobile and got the same careful result in seconds, with no typos and no drift. That was my first Claude Code cheat code. Within a month I had thirty. Within a year I had more than three hundred, sorted by task, by person, by industry and by niche.
Here is what changed for me once I stopped retyping and started using codes:
- Fewer mistakes. A saved code says exactly what I mean every single time.
- Faster starts. I spend my energy on the problem, not on writing the prompt.
- Easy hand-offs. When a freelancer joins a project, I share the codes and they work the way I work from day one.
- Calmer days. Honestly, this is the part I value most. A short code removes the small decisions that drain you by evening.
I am not a big company with fifty developers. Most of the time it is just me, a laptop and a list of people who trust me with their first website. These cheat codes are how one person keeps that promise.
What Claude Code Cheat Codes Actually Are (And What They Are Not)
Let me be straight with you, because a lot of posts online get this wrong. There is no secret list of 300 hidden Claude Code commands that only insiders know. If someone sells you that, close the tab. What exists is simpler and far more useful.
Built-in Claude Code Slash Commands vs Custom Shortcodes
Claude Code cheat codes come in two kinds. Knowing the difference saves you a lot of confusion.
| Type | Where it comes from | How many in this guide | Example |
|---|---|---|---|
| Built-in slash commands, keys and flags | Ship with Claude Code. Anthropic documents them officially. | 65 | /init, /compact, Shift+Tab, claude -c |
| Custom shortcodes | You create them once as small files. Claude Code then treats them as your own slash commands. | 235 | /fix-mobile, /gst-invoice, /blog-brief |
Every built-in code in this guide is checked against Anthropic’s official Claude Code documentation as of October 2026. Commands change between versions, so if one does not appear for you, type / and your own version will show you what it supports. Every custom shortcode is one I wrote and use. You will copy the idea, the name and the instruction, then save it on your own machine.
Where Claude Code Cheat Codes Work: Claude Code, Claude Cowork and Claude Chat
You do not need to be a developer to use these. The same shortcode idea works in three places, just saved in a slightly different way.
| Where | Who it suits | How the shortcodes work there |
|---|---|---|
| Claude Code (terminal, desktop or IDE) | Developers, freelancers, technical founders | Saved as skill or command files. Type /name and it runs. |
| Claude Cowork | Founders and teams who want Claude to work on files and tasks for them | Saved as skills, or listed in your instructions. Type the shortcode and Claude follows the saved steps. |
| Claude chat (claude.ai and the app) | Anyone, including people who never open a terminal | Saved in a Project’s instructions. Type the shortcode at the start of your message. |
In Claude Code the shortcodes are real commands. In Cowork and chat they work as a shorthand that Claude recognises because you told it what each code means. I will show you both setups below.
How to Set Up Claude Code Cheat Codes Step by Step
This takes about fifteen minutes the first time. After that, adding a new code takes less than a minute. Follow the steps in order.
Step 1: Install and Log In Before Using Claude Code Shortcuts
- Install Claude Code from Anthropic’s official site, using the method for your system.
- Open your terminal inside your project folder and type
claude. - Run
/loginand sign in with your Claude account. - Run
/initonce per project. Claude reads your project and writes aCLAUDE.mdguide it will follow every time.
If you are completely new, read my Claude Code beginner’s guide first. It walks through the login screens one by one.
Step 2: Create Your Claude Custom Slash Commands Folder
Claude Code looks for your own commands in two places. Use the project folder for codes that belong to one client, and your home folder for codes you want everywhere.
| Scope | Folder (recommended skill format) | Older command-file format, still supported |
|---|---|---|
| Only this project | .claude/skills/<code-name>/SKILL.md | .claude/commands/<code-name>.md |
| Every project on your computer | ~/.claude/skills/<code-name>/SKILL.md | ~/.claude/commands/<code-name>.md |
Step 3: Write Your First Claude Code Cheat Codes File
Create the folder .claude/skills/fix-mobile and inside it a file called SKILL.md. Paste this:
---
description: Find and fix what breaks on mobile, touching nothing else
argument-hint: [page or component]
---
Check $ARGUMENTS at 360px, 390px and 768px widths.
List every layout problem you find, with the file and line.
Fix only those problems. Do not change colours, copy or desktop layout.
Show me a short before-and-after summary when you finish.Save it, then type /fix-mobile header in Claude Code. The word after the code becomes $ARGUMENTS. If you add a code while a session is open, run /reload-skills so Claude picks it up without restarting.
Step 4: Use the Same Claude Chat Shortcodes in Claude Cowork
- In Claude chat, create a Project and name it something like My Cheat Codes.
- Open the Project instructions and paste a short list: the code, then one or two lines on what it means. For example: /blog-brief = turn my topic into a brief with search intent, outline, FAQs and internal link ideas.
- Start any chat inside that Project and type the code at the beginning of your message, followed by your details.
- In Cowork, save your most-used codes as skills, or keep the same list in your instructions, and type the shortcode when you hand over a task.
Step 5: Share Your Claude Code Cheat Codes With Your Team
Project-level codes live inside the project folder, so anyone who opens the project gets them. I keep the .claude/skills folder in the client’s repository. When a freelancer joins, they open the project, type / and see every code I use. No training call needed.
A good cheat code is short to type, impossible to misread and does one job well. If a code needs a paragraph of explanation, split it into two codes.
Built-in Claude Code Slash Commands Cheat Sheet (35 Codes)
These are the built-in Claude Code slash commands I actually use, out of the long official list. Type / at the start of a message to see them. Some are bundled skills and appear only in newer versions, so trust what your own menu shows.
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/help | Shows help and every command available to you | When I forget a command name |
/init | Writes a CLAUDE.md guide for the project | First thing in every new client project |
/memory | Edits CLAUDE.md files and auto memory | When I want Claude to remember a rule for good |
/clear | Starts a fresh conversation with empty context | When I switch to a totally different task |
/compact | Summarises the chat so far to free up context | Long sessions, with a note like keep the API decisions |
/context | Shows how full the context window is | When answers start getting vague |
/rewind | Rolls the conversation and code back to an earlier point | When an edit went wrong |
/resume | Reopens an earlier conversation | Picking up yesterday’s work |
/rename | Names the current session | Before I leave a client session for the day |
/branch | Branches the conversation so you can try another direction | Testing two approaches side by side |
/btw | Asks a side question without adding it to the conversation | Quick doubts mid-task |
/plan | Enters plan mode so Claude plans before touching files | Any change bigger than one file |
/model | Switches the AI model | Heavier model for hard bugs, lighter one for small edits |
/effort | Sets how hard Claude thinks, from low to max | Low for renames, high for architecture |
/fast | Toggles fast mode on or off | Quick back-and-forth edits |
/permissions | Manages what Claude may do without asking | Allowing safe commands like running tests |
/config | Opens settings for theme, model and more | Setting up a new laptop |
/add-dir | Gives access to another folder this session | When a theme and a plugin live in separate folders |
/diff | Shows every change in the working tree | Before I commit anything |
/review | Reviews the current changes (alias of /code-review) | Before sending work to a client |
/security-review | Checks your branch changes for security problems | Anything touching logins, forms or payments |
/simplify | Reviews changed code and cleans it up | After a long build session |
/verify | Builds and runs the app to confirm a change works | When tests pass but I still have doubts |
/run | Launches your app so you can see the change working | Showing a client a live fix |
/debug | Turns on debug logging and reads the log | When Claude Code itself misbehaves |
/doctor | Runs a setup checkup and can fix issues | After installing or updating |
/usage | Shows session cost, plan limits and stats | End of a heavy day |
/export | Exports the conversation as plain text | Saving a record for the client file |
/copy | Copies the last response to the clipboard | Pasting an answer into email or WhatsApp |
/tasks | Shows background work and finished subagents | Checking on long jobs |
/background | Sends the session to run in the background | Freeing my terminal for something else |
/mcp | Manages connected MCP servers and tools | Connecting tools like GitHub |
/skills | Lists all skills, including your custom codes | Checking a new code loaded |
/goal | Keeps Claude working until a condition is met | Goal: all tests pass |
/recap | Gives a one-line summary of the session | Coming back after a break |
Claude Code Shortcuts: Keyboard Keys and Input Symbols (15 Codes)
Claude Code shortcuts on the keyboard save even more time than slash commands, because your hands never leave the keys. On a Mac, the Option shortcuts need Option set as Meta in your terminal settings.
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
Esc | Stops Claude mid-response and keeps work done so far | When I see it heading the wrong way |
Esc + Esc | Clears the draft, or opens the rewind menu when input is empty | Undoing a bad turn quickly |
Shift+Tab | Cycles permission modes, including plan mode | Switching into plan mode before big work |
Ctrl+C | Interrupts, or clears input; press twice to exit | Stopping a long command |
Ctrl+R | Searches your previous prompts | Reusing a prompt from last week |
Ctrl+G | Opens your prompt in your text editor | Writing long, careful instructions |
Ctrl+V | Pastes an image from the clipboard (Alt+V on Windows) | Sharing a screenshot of a broken page |
Ctrl+B | Sends running commands and agents to the background | Long builds or test runs |
Ctrl+T | Shows or hides Claude’s task checklist | Tracking a multi-step job |
Ctrl+S | Stashes your half-written prompt, then restores it | When I need to ask something else first |
Option+P / Alt+P | Switches model without losing your prompt | Mid-task model change |
Option+T / Alt+T | Toggles extended thinking on supported models | Tricky logic problems |
! at the start | Runs a shell command directly and shares its output | !npm test before asking for a fix |
@ in a message | Autocompletes and mentions a file path | Pointing Claude at the exact file |
? on empty input | Shows the shortcut help panel | When I forget a key |
Claude Code Commands List 2026: Flags for Automatic Runs (15 Codes)
This part of the Claude Code commands list 2026 is for the terminal itself, before a session starts. These are perfect for scripts and repeat jobs.
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
claude "task" | Starts a session with your first prompt ready | Morning start: claude "what changed yesterday" |
claude -p "task" | Runs once, prints the answer and exits | Quick answers inside scripts |
claude -c | Continues your most recent conversation here | Back after lunch |
claude -r name | Resumes a session by ID or name | Returning to a named client session |
claude -n name | Names the session as it starts | Keeping client sessions apart |
--model | Picks the model for this session | --model opus for hard work |
--effort | Sets effort level for this session | --effort high on audits |
--permission-mode plan | Starts in plan mode | Reviewing a plan before any edits |
--add-dir | Adds extra folders Claude can read and edit | Theme plus child theme |
--output-format json | Returns machine-readable output with -p | Feeding results into other tools |
--max-turns | Limits how many steps an automatic run takes | Keeping scripted runs cheap |
--append-system-prompt | Adds your own standing rule to the session | Always reply in simple English |
--allowedTools | Lets chosen tools run without asking | Allowing git log and git diff |
-w / --worktree | Starts in an isolated git worktree | Trying a risky change safely |
claude update | Updates Claude Code to the latest version | Every Monday morning |
One honest warning: you will see people recommend --dangerously-skip-permissions to stop all approval prompts. I do not use it on client work, and I suggest you do not either. Plan mode and /permissions give you speed without handing over the keys.
Intention-Specific Claude Code Cheat Codes (40 Shortcodes)
From here on, every code is a custom shortcode. I sort my codes first by intention, meaning what I want done right now. When I sit down, I rarely think which file. I think fix this, build that, explain this to the client. So my codes follow the way my brain works. Copy the name, save the description as the instruction, and add your own details.
Claude Code Cheat Codes to Debug and Fix
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/fix-mobile | Finds and fixes only the layout problems on small screens | Client says looks broken on my phone |
/why-error | Reads an error, explains the cause in plain words, then proposes one fix | Any red text in the console |
/repro-bug | Writes the shortest steps that reproduce a reported bug | Before I fix anything |
/fix-one | Fixes a single named bug and refuses to touch other files | Keeping changes small |
/slow-page | Finds the three biggest reasons a page loads slowly | Speed complaints |
/form-broken | Checks why a form does not submit or send email | Contact forms on WordPress |
/fix-404 | Finds broken links and missing pages in the project | After a site migration |
/rollback-plan | Lists exactly how to undo the last change if it fails | Before a risky fix goes live |
Claude Code Cheat Codes to Build and Refactor
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/new-page | Builds a new page that matches the existing design system | Landing pages for clients |
/component | Creates one reusable component with props and usage notes | Repeated cards or buttons |
/refactor-safe | Cleans up code without changing what it does, then proves it | Messy inherited projects |
/rename-all | Renames a function or class everywhere it is used | Fixing confusing names |
/split-file | Breaks a huge file into smaller, sensible files | Files over 500 lines |
/add-feature | Plans, builds and tests one feature from a short brief | Small client requests |
/api-hook | Connects a page to an API with loading and error states | Booking or payment widgets |
/dark-mode | Adds a dark theme using the site’s existing colours | Popular client add-on |
Claude Code Cheat Codes to Test and Review
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/test-this | Writes tests for one function, including edge cases | Before refactoring |
/test-gaps | Lists important code paths with no tests | Monthly health check |
/pre-ship | Runs tests, lint and a quick review before release | Every deployment |
/review-plain | Reviews changes and explains issues in non-technical words | Sharing with clients |
/a11y-check | Checks a page for accessibility problems | Forms and menus |
/seo-tech | Checks titles, meta, headings and schema in templates | WordPress themes |
/browser-check | Lists likely issues on Safari and older Android browsers | India-heavy audiences |
/secret-scan | Looks for passwords or keys left in the code | Before pushing to GitHub |
Claude Code Cheat Codes to Explain and Document
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/explain-repo | Explains a project’s structure in ten simple lines | First day on a new codebase |
/explain-like-5 | Explains a piece of code for a total beginner | Teaching interns |
/readme | Writes a clear README with setup steps | Handing over a project |
/handover | Writes a handover note: what was done, what is left, risks | End of a client contract |
/changelog | Turns recent commits into a readable changelog | Weekly client updates |
/comment-why | Adds comments that explain why, not what | Tricky logic |
/client-update | Writes a short, friendly progress update from today’s changes | Evening WhatsApp updates |
/diagram-text | Describes how data flows through the app, step by step | Explaining architecture |
Claude Code Cheat Codes to Plan, Research and Ship
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/plan-first | Writes a step-by-step plan and waits for my approval | Any job over an hour |
/estimate | Breaks a task into parts with rough effort for each | Quoting a client |
/options-3 | Gives three ways to solve a problem with trade-offs | When I am unsure |
/risk-list | Lists what could go wrong with a plan and how to prevent it | Launch week |
/research-lib | Compares two or three libraries for a task | Choosing a slider or form tool |
/deploy-check | Checks environment settings before deploying | Moving from staging to live |
/launch-list | Creates a launch checklist for the project | New website go-live |
/postmortem | Writes what went wrong, why, and what we change next time | After any outage |
User-Specific Claude Code Cheat Codes (50 Shortcodes)
Different people need different codes. When I guide students, founders and freelancers, I hand each group a different starter pack. Here they are, ten per group.
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Students and Beginners
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/learn-this | Teaches the concept behind a piece of code with one small exercise | Studying any new topic |
/quiz-me | Asks five questions about code I just wrote | Revision before exams |
/fix-my-code | Fixes my code and explains each change | College assignments |
/project-idea | Suggests a small portfolio project for my skill level | Building a portfolio |
/step-by-step | Builds something in tiny steps and pauses after each | Learning without getting lost |
/error-meaning | Explains an error message in simple English | First weeks of coding |
/viva-prep | Prepares likely questions about my project for a viva | Final-year projects |
/github-setup | Walks me through pushing my first project to GitHub | First repository |
/resume-project | Writes a strong resume line for a project I built | Job applications |
/interview-dsa | Gives one coding interview problem and reviews my answer | Placement season |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Solo Founders
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/mvp-scope | Cuts an idea down to the smallest version worth launching | Before building anything |
/landing-mvp | Builds a one-page site with a signup form | Testing an idea in a weekend |
/waitlist | Adds an email waitlist with a thank-you message | Pre-launch |
/pricing-page | Builds a simple pricing page with three plans | First paid offer |
/founder-dash | Builds a tiny dashboard of signups and sales | Weekly numbers |
/legal-pages | Drafts privacy policy and terms pages for a lawyer to check | Launch week |
/feedback-form | Adds a short feedback form and stores replies | Early users |
/pitch-numbers | Turns my data into clear numbers for a pitch deck | Investor meetings |
/weekly-founder | Summarises what I shipped this week and what is next | Friday reflection |
/automate-boring | Finds one repetitive task and scripts it | Saving hours every week |
A note on /legal-pages: it gives you a first draft only. It is not legal advice, and a qualified lawyer in your country should review it before you publish.
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Freelancers and Agencies
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/client-brief | Turns a messy client message into a clear brief | Every new enquiry |
/quote-scope | Lists deliverables, exclusions and timelines for a quote | Avoiding scope creep |
/site-audit | Audits a client site for speed, SEO and security issues | Sales calls |
/clone-structure | Rebuilds a site structure from a sitemap, with fresh design | Redesign projects |
/wp-child-theme | Creates a child theme so updates do not wipe changes | Every WordPress job |
/handoff-video | Writes a script for a short handover screen recording | Project delivery |
/revision-log | Records each client revision and what changed | Disputes and billing |
/maintenance | Runs a monthly maintenance checklist | Retainer clients |
/invoice-notes | Writes clear line items for an invoice from the work log | Month end |
/case-study | Turns a finished project into a portfolio case study | Winning the next client |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Developers
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/pr-ready | Prepares a pull request with title, summary and test notes | Every PR |
/types-fix | Fixes type errors without using shortcuts like any | TypeScript projects |
/db-migrate | Writes a safe database migration with a rollback | Schema changes |
/perf-profile | Finds the slowest functions and suggests fixes | Performance work |
/dep-update | Updates dependencies one at a time and tests each | Monthly upkeep |
/env-example | Creates a safe example environment file without secrets | New repositories |
/ci-fix | Reads a failing CI run and fixes the cause | Red builds |
/api-docs | Documents every API endpoint with examples | Team projects |
/log-better | Adds useful logging around a feature | Hard-to-trace bugs |
/dead-code | Finds unused files and functions to remove | Spring cleaning |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Marketers and Creators
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/utm-links | Builds tracked campaign links in a table | Every campaign |
/landing-ab | Creates two versions of a landing page headline section | A/B tests |
/email-template | Builds a mobile-friendly email template | Newsletters |
/pixel-check | Checks that tracking pixels fire on key pages | Ad launches |
/content-calendar | Builds a month of post ideas in a table | Planning month |
/repurpose | Turns one blog post into thread, carousel and short-video scripts | Every new article |
/thumbnail-text | Suggests five short thumbnail text options | YouTube uploads |
/link-in-bio | Builds a simple link-in-bio page | Instagram creators |
/report-weekly | Turns analytics exports into a short weekly report | Client reporting |
/hook-lines | Writes ten opening hooks for a topic | Short-form video |
Industry-Specific Claude Code Cheat Codes (80 Shortcodes)
Most of the people who write to Ethical Founder are not developers. They run shops, coaching centres, restaurants and small firms. For them I build industry codes. Ten per industry, all tested on real client work. For legal, finance and HR, the codes help you draft and check. They do not replace a professional, and I say that to every client.
Claude Code Cheat Codes for E-commerce and D2C Brands
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/product-copy | Writes product descriptions from a spec sheet in the brand voice | New stock uploads |
/bulk-products | Converts a spreadsheet into a product import file | Uploading hundreds of items |
/cod-rules | Adds cash-on-delivery limits by pin code or order value | Indian D2C stores |
/abandoned-cart | Drafts a three-message cart recovery sequence | Lost sales |
/size-guide | Builds a size guide table and page | Clothing brands |
/review-schema | Adds product review schema to templates | Better search snippets |
/shipping-calc | Builds a shipping cost table by zone and weight | Checkout pages |
/festival-sale | Creates a sale banner, countdown and coupon setup | Diwali and Black Friday |
/return-policy | Drafts a clear returns page for review | Reducing support tickets |
/stock-alert | Builds a low-stock alert script | Fast-moving items |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Legal and Compliance Work
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/clause-compare | Compares two contract versions and lists every changed clause | Contract rounds |
/plain-summary | Summarises a long agreement in plain language | Explaining terms to founders |
/deadline-table | Pulls all dates and deadlines from a document into a table | Filing calendars |
/missing-clauses | Lists common clauses a draft might be missing | First-draft checks |
/redact-names | Masks personal names and numbers in a document | Sharing samples safely |
/cookie-banner | Adds a cookie consent banner to a site | UK and EU visitors |
/privacy-map | Lists every form that collects personal data | Privacy policy updates |
/nda-draft | Drafts a simple NDA for a lawyer to review | Freelance partnerships |
/case-notes | Organises case notes into a dated timeline | Law office admin |
/intake-form | Builds a client intake form for a law practice site | Lead capture |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Real Estate
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/listing-page | Builds a property listing page with gallery and map | New listings |
/listing-copy | Writes a listing description from basic details | Daily uploads |
/emi-calc | Adds a home-loan EMI calculator to the site | Buyer pages |
/area-guide | Drafts a neighbourhood guide page | Local SEO |
/lead-router | Sends enquiries to the right agent by area | Busy agencies |
/site-visit | Builds a site-visit booking form with time slots | Weekend visits |
/compare-props | Builds a side-by-side property comparison table | Undecided buyers |
/rera-fields | Adds registration number fields to listing templates | Indian listings |
/price-table | Turns a price list into a clean table | Project launches |
/followup-msgs | Drafts polite follow-up messages after a visit | Lead nurturing |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Education and Coaching
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/course-page | Builds a course sales page with syllabus and FAQs | New batches |
/lesson-plan | Turns a topic into a lesson plan with activities | Teachers and tutors |
/quiz-builder | Builds a self-marking online quiz | Weekly tests |
/attendance | Creates a simple attendance tracker | Coaching centres |
/fee-reminder | Drafts polite fee reminder messages | Month start |
/batch-timetable | Builds a batch timetable page | Exam season |
/certificate | Generates completion certificates from a name list | Course endings |
/student-report | Turns marks into a short report for parents | Parent meetings |
/notes-to-slides | Turns teaching notes into a slide outline | Class prep |
/doubt-faq | Turns common student doubts into an FAQ page | Reducing repeat questions |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Finance and Accounting
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/gst-invoice | Builds a GST invoice template with tax fields | Indian businesses |
/expense-sort | Sorts a bank statement export into expense categories | Month-end books |
/reconcile | Matches invoices against payments and lists mismatches | Accounts follow-up |
/cashflow-sheet | Builds a simple monthly cash-flow sheet | Planning ahead |
/vat-invoice | Builds a VAT-ready invoice template | UK clients |
/receipt-extract | Pulls amounts and dates from receipt text into a table | Expense claims |
/budget-vs-actual | Compares budget with actual spend and flags gaps | Monthly reviews |
/payment-reminder | Drafts firm but polite overdue payment reminders | Late clients |
/fin-glossary | Explains finance terms in a report in simple words | Non-finance founders |
/audit-trail | Lists who changed which figures and when, from logs | Audit prep |
These finance codes organise and check your numbers. They are not tax or investment advice. For filings, always confirm with a qualified chartered accountant or tax adviser.
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Restaurants and Food Businesses
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/menu-page | Builds a menu page from a price list | Menu changes |
/menu-copy | Writes short, tasty dish descriptions | New dishes |
/qr-menu | Builds a mobile menu page for a table QR code | Dine-in |
/table-booking | Adds a reservation form with time slots | Weekend rush |
/food-cost | Builds a dish cost calculator from ingredient prices | Pricing |
/daily-special | Drafts the daily special post for social media | Every morning |
/tiffin-plan | Builds a weekly tiffin subscription page | Home kitchens |
/review-reply | Drafts calm replies to good and bad reviews | Online reputation |
/inventory-list | Creates a stock list with reorder levels | Kitchen management |
/allergen-table | Builds an allergen table for the menu | Customer safety |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for SaaS Teams
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/onboarding-flow | Designs the first-run steps for new users | Improving activation |
/changelog-page | Builds a public changelog page | Release communication |
/feature-flag | Wraps a new feature behind an on-off switch | Safe rollouts |
/usage-events | Adds analytics events to key actions | Product analytics |
/churn-signals | Lists user actions that often come before cancelling | Retention work |
/help-docs | Writes help articles from the product’s actual screens | Support load |
/status-page | Builds a simple service status page | Outage communication |
/pricing-test | Sets up two pricing page variants | Pricing experiments |
/api-sdk-example | Writes copy-paste code examples for the API | Developer adoption |
/support-macros | Drafts reply templates for common tickets | Support team |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for HR and Recruiting
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/job-post | Writes a clear, inclusive job description | New openings |
/careers-page | Builds a careers page with open roles | Hiring season |
/screen-questions | Writes five role-specific screening questions | First rounds |
/interview-kit | Builds an interview guide with a scoring table | Panel interviews |
/offer-letter | Drafts an offer letter template for HR review | Final stage |
/onboard-checklist | Creates a first-week checklist for new hires | Joining day |
/leave-tracker | Builds a simple leave tracker | Small teams |
/policy-summary | Summarises an HR policy in plain words | Employee FAQs |
/exit-survey | Builds a short exit interview form | Learning from leavers |
/skills-matrix | Builds a team skills table | Training plans |
Niche Claude Code Cheat Codes for Bloggers, SEO and Creators (45 Shortcodes)
This is the section closest to my heart, because it is the work I do every day on Ethical Founder and my other sites. Nine codes per niche.
Claude Code Cheat Codes for WordPress and Blogging
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/blog-brief | Turns a topic into a brief with intent, outline and FAQs | Before every article |
/block-format | Formats a draft into clean block-editor blocks | Publishing day |
/internal-links | Suggests internal links from my existing posts | Every new post |
/featured-alt | Writes alt text and image titles with the focus keyword | Image uploads |
/wp-speed | Checks a WordPress site for heavy plugins and images | Slow blogs |
/schema-article | Adds article schema with author details | Author pages |
/category-plan | Plans categories so posts do not compete with each other | Site structure |
/update-old-post | Refreshes an old post with new facts and dates | Content updates |
/author-box | Builds an author bio block for posts | Trust and E-E-A-T |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for SEO
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/keyword-map | Maps keywords to pages and flags clashes | Planning content |
/title-ctr | Writes five high-click title options under 60 characters | Every post |
/meta-desc | Writes a meta description under 155 characters | Every post |
/heading-check | Checks that headings carry the focus keyword naturally | Before publishing |
/redirect-map | Builds a redirect list for changed URLs | Migrations |
/sitemap-check | Finds pages missing from the sitemap | Indexing issues |
/faq-schema | Turns an FAQ section into FAQ schema | Rich results |
/competitor-gap | Lists subtopics competitors cover that I do not | Content gaps |
/local-seo | Adds local business details and schema | Local clients |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for YouTube and Instagram
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/yt-script | Writes a video script with hook, story and call to action | Weekly uploads |
/yt-chapters | Creates chapter timestamps from a transcript | Long videos |
/yt-description | Writes an SEO-friendly video description | Every upload |
/reel-script | Writes a 30-second reel script | Daily reels |
/carousel | Turns a post into a ten-slide carousel outline | |
/caption-pack | Writes five caption options with hashtags | Every post |
/comment-replies | Drafts friendly replies to common comments | Engagement |
/collab-pitch | Drafts a short brand collaboration pitch | Sponsorships |
/shorts-cut | Finds the best 30-second moments in a transcript | Repurposing |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Telugu and Hindi Content
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/to-telugu | Translates a post into natural, everyday Telugu | Regional blogs |
/to-hindi | Translates a post into natural, everyday Hindi | Wider reach |
/tenglish | Rewrites in Telugu-English mix the way people speak | Social posts |
/hinglish | Rewrites in Hindi-English mix | Reels and captions |
/regional-seo | Finds how people search the topic in the regional language | Regional keywords |
/font-fix | Fixes Telugu or Hindi text that shows as boxes on the site | Display issues |
/bilingual-page | Builds a page with English and regional versions side by side | Local businesses |
/voice-script | Writes a regional voice-over script | Explainer videos |
/culture-check | Checks a translation for phrases that sound odd locally | Before publishing |
Claude Code Cheat Codes for Local and Kirana Businesses
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/shop-site | Builds a one-page shop site with timings and map | First website |
/whatsapp-order | Adds an order-on-WhatsApp button with a pre-filled message | Local orders |
/price-board | Turns a daily price list into a shareable image text | Daily updates |
/google-profile | Drafts the business description and posts for a Google profile | Local search |
/credit-book | Builds a simple customer credit ledger sheet | Udhaar tracking |
/offer-poster | Writes text for a festival offer poster | Festivals |
/delivery-zones | Lists delivery areas and charges as a table | Home delivery |
/reorder-list | Builds a weekly reorder list from sales | Stock planning |
/thank-you-msg | Drafts thank-you messages for repeat customers | Loyalty |
Claude Cowork Shortcuts and Claude Chat Shortcodes (20 Codes)
Not everyone on my team opens a terminal, and that is fine. These Claude Cowork shortcuts and Claude chat shortcodes live in a Project’s instructions or as saved skills. Type the code at the start of your message and add your details after it.
| Cheat code | What it does | When I use it |
|---|---|---|
/inbox-zero | Sorts pasted emails into reply now, later and ignore, with draft replies | Monday mornings |
/meeting-prep | Builds a one-page brief before a meeting | Client calls |
/meeting-notes | Turns rough notes into decisions, owners and dates | After every call |
/doc-summary | Summarises a long document in five points and one risk | Reading contracts or reports |
/proposal | Drafts a client proposal from a short brief | New leads |
/sop | Turns how I do a task into a step-by-step SOP | Training freelancers |
/sheet-clean | Cleans a messy spreadsheet and explains each change | Client data |
/folder-tidy | Suggests a clean folder structure and file names | Cowork file tasks |
/weekly-plan | Turns my task list into a realistic weekly plan | Sunday evening |
/reply-kind | Rewrites a sharp reply in a calm, kind tone | Difficult messages |
/linkedin-post | Drafts a LinkedIn post from a project win | Personal brand |
/research-brief | Researches a question and lists sources to check | New topics |
/compare-tools | Compares tools in a table with honest trade-offs | Buying decisions |
/cold-email | Writes a short, honest outreach email | Finding clients |
/faq-from-chats | Turns customer questions into an FAQ list | Support pages |
/explain-simple | Explains any topic for a non-technical person | Family and clients |
/checklist | Turns any goal into a checklist | Every big task |
/decision | Lays out options, costs and a recommendation | Hard choices |
/rewrite-short | Cuts any text to half its length without losing meaning | Long drafts |
/daily-wrap | Summarises what I did today and what is next | Evening log |
If you want the academic side of this, my Claude prompts for academic research uses the same idea for university work. And if you want Claude to click and type on your computer, my Claude computer use tutorial shows how that works safely.
How I Use Claude Code Cheat Codes in My Daily Workflow
People always ask me what a normal day looks like. Here is a typical one.
| Time | What I do | Cheat codes I use |
|---|---|---|
| 7:30 AM | Check what changed on client projects overnight | claude -c, /recap, /diff |
| 8:00 AM | Clear messages and plan the day | /inbox-zero, /weekly-plan |
| 9:00 AM | Fix the most urgent client issue | /repro-bug, /plan-first, /fix-one |
| 11:00 AM | Build a new page or feature | /new-page, /component, /test-this |
| 1:00 PM | Lunch, while a long job runs | Ctrl+B, /tasks |
| 2:00 PM | Write and optimise an Ethical Founder article | /blog-brief, /title-ctr, /internal-links |
| 5:00 PM | Review and ship | /review, /pre-ship, /security-review |
| 7:00 PM | Update clients and close the day | /client-update, /daily-wrap, /usage |
Notice that I rarely use more than three codes for one job. The goal is not to use every code. The goal is to never type the same long instruction twice.
Claude Code Cheat Codes vs Codex CLI and Grok Build Shortcuts
I test other coding agents too, and I covered the tool landscape in my AI agents market saturation report. Every serious terminal agent now has some built-in commands. What makes Claude Code cheat codes different for me is how easy it is to turn my own habits into commands that the whole team shares.
| What matters to me | Claude Code | Other terminal agents |
|---|---|---|
| Built-in commands | A long, documented list, from /init to /security-review | Most have their own set; check each tool’s docs |
| Custom shortcodes | Simple skill or command files with arguments | Support varies by tool and version |
| Same codes outside the terminal | Skills and Projects carry the idea into Cowork and Claude chat | Usually tied to the terminal tool |
| Plan before editing | /plan and Shift+Tab plan mode | Varies |
| My verdict | Best fit for building a personal cheat code library | Worth testing for specific jobs |
I am not telling you never to use another tool. I am telling you where my shortcodes live today, and why.
How to Build Your Own Claude Prompts Cheat Sheet Library
My 300 codes are a starting point, not a finish line. Your own Claude prompts cheat sheet should grow from your own repeated work. Here is the method I use.
- Notice the repeat. If you type the same instruction three times in a week, it becomes a code.
- Name it like a verb. Short, lowercase, with a hyphen:
/fix-mobile, not/MobileLayoutFixer2. - Write one job per code. If it does two jobs, make two codes.
- Add a guard line. Tell Claude what not to touch, so the code never surprises you.
- Use arguments. Put
$ARGUMENTSwhere the changing detail goes. - Keep an index. A simple table of code, purpose and folder, saved in your project.
- Review monthly. Delete codes you have not used in a month. Run
/skill-doctorto see which skills cost the most context.
Claude Code Cheat Codes Mistakes Beginners Should Avoid
- Believing in secret commands. If a command is not in your
/menu, it does not exist in your version. - Making codes too long. A code that tries to do everything ends up doing nothing well.
- Skipping plan mode. For anything bigger than one file, plan first.
- Turning off every permission. Speed is not worth losing a client’s database.
- Never compacting. In long sessions, use
/compactor/clearbefore answers get fuzzy. - Trusting legal or finance drafts blindly. Use those codes to draft, then get a professional to check.
- Not sharing codes. Codes saved only on your laptop help only you. Put project codes in the project.
Which Claude Code Cheat Codes Beginners Should Learn First
If 300 feels like too many, start with these ten. Learn them this week and add five new ones every week after.
| Order | Cheat code | Why learn it first |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | /init | Gives Claude your project’s rules |
| 2 | /plan | Stops surprise edits |
| 3 | Esc | Lets you stop Claude any time |
| 4 | /rewind | Undo button for mistakes |
| 5 | /compact | Keeps long sessions sharp |
| 6 | /diff | Shows exactly what changed |
| 7 | /review | Second pair of eyes before shipping |
| 8 | @ | Points Claude at the right file |
| 9 | /fix-one | Your first custom code: small, safe fixes |
| 10 | /explain-repo | Understand any project in minutes |
Claude Code Cheat Codes FAQs
Are Claude Code cheat codes free to use?
The built-in commands come with Claude Code. The custom shortcodes in this guide are free to copy. You need a Claude plan or API access to use Claude Code itself.
Do Claude Code cheat codes work on Windows?
Yes. Claude Code runs on Windows, macOS and Linux. A few keyboard shortcuts differ, for example Alt+V instead of Ctrl+V to paste images on Windows.
Can I use these Claude Code shortcuts without coding knowledge?
Yes. Start with the Claude Cowork shortcuts and Claude chat shortcodes section. They need no terminal at all.
Where do I save custom Claude Code cheat codes?
Save them as .claude/skills/<name>/SKILL.md inside a project, or in ~/.claude/skills to use them everywhere. The older .claude/commands/<name>.md files still work too.
Why do some Claude Code slash commands not appear for me?
Your version may be older, or the command may need a specific plan. Run claude update, then type / to see your current list.
How many Claude Code cheat codes should a beginner learn first?
Start with ten: /init, /plan, Esc, /rewind, /compact, /diff, /review, @ file mentions, and two custom codes such as /fix-one and /explain-repo. Add five new codes every week after that.
Are there secret or hidden Claude Code cheat codes?
No. Every built-in command appears when you type / in your own version of Claude Code. Anything else is a custom shortcode that you save yourself as a skill or command file.
Can I share my Claude Code cheat codes with my team?
Yes. Save them inside the project at .claude/skills so anyone who opens the project gets the same codes. Personal codes in your home folder stay on your computer only.
Final Thoughts on Claude Code Cheat Codes
I built these Claude Code cheat codes the slow way, one late-night mistake at a time, so that you do not have to. Pick ten. Save them tonight. Use them tomorrow. Then come back and add the next ten. In a month you will wonder how you ever worked without them.
If you build a code that saves you real time, write to me through the Contact page. I read every message, and the best ideas may make it into a future update of this guide.
Written and tested by Siva Charan, Ethical Founder.
