Claude Code Plan Mode: Complete Tutorial + Keyboard Shortcuts (2026)
Complete Claude Code plan mode tutorial. Learn how to toggle plan mode with Shift+Tab, use /plan, and get dramatically better results. Step-by-step guide with keyboard shortcuts.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Plan Mode in Claude Code?
Plan Mode is a feature where Claude analyzes your request and creates a detailed plan before executing anything. Instead of immediately building, Claude shows you what it intends to do and waits for your approval. This 5-minute habit prevents hours of debugging from Claude going in the wrong direction.
How do I activate Plan Mode in Claude Code?
Add 'Enter plan mode first' to your request, or use Shift+Tab before sending your message. You can also type /plan to enter plan mode. Claude will then analyze your request and present a plan for approval before taking any action.
When should I use Plan Mode?
Use Plan Mode for any task that involves multiple steps, touches multiple files, or where you're not 100% sure what Claude should build. Complex features, refactoring, and architectural changes especially benefit from planning first. Skip it only for trivial single-line fixes.
What's the difference between Plan Mode and regular Claude Code?
In regular mode, Claude immediately executes your request. In Plan Mode, Claude explores your codebase, creates a plan, and waits for approval before making any changes. This prevents Claude from restructuring your project in ways you didn't want.
How do I approve or modify a plan in Plan Mode?
After Claude presents its plan, review each step and either approve it, ask for modifications, or reject specific parts. You can say 'Looks good, execute' to proceed, or 'Change step 3 to...' to refine the plan before execution.
How do I toggle plan mode in Claude Code?
Press Shift+Tab twice to toggle Plan Mode on and off. You'll see a mode indicator change in your Claude Code interface confirming Plan Mode is active. You can also type /plan or simply add 'Enter plan mode first' to your message.
What is the keyboard shortcut for Claude Code plan mode?
The keyboard shortcut is Shift+Tab pressed twice. This toggles Plan Mode on and off. When active, you'll see 'Plan Mode: Active' in your Claude Code status bar. Build the muscle memory: Shift+Tab, Shift+Tab before every complex task.
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