0.0: Intro to Claude Code
What is Claude Code?
Claude Code is an AI assistant that works directly on your computer:
- Not just for coding - It’s a general-purpose assistant backed by Claude (Opus 4.5)
- Reads files, analyzes data, creates documents, runs commands
- Lives in the terminal - but you just have conversations
- The only command you need to know:
claude
Who This Course Is For
- Non-technical people who want to use AI effectively
- No coding experience required
- No terminal experience required
- Just curiosity and a willingness to try something new
Course Structure
| Module | Focus | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Module 1: Fundamentals | File operations, agents, memory | ~3 hours |
| Module 2: Vibe Coding | Build a real web app (Coming Soon) | ~2-3 hours |
| Future Modules | MCP integrations, browser automation | TBD |
Requirements
- Claude Pro or Max subscription ($20/month at claude.ai)
- Mac, Windows, or Linux computer
- ~3 hours for Module 1
Claude Code vs ChatGPT
| Feature | ChatGPT | Claude Code |
|---|---|---|
| File access | None | Read/write any file |
| Memory | Disappears after session | Persistent (CLAUDE.md) |
| Execution | Suggests what to do | Actually does it |
| Multi-file | One at a time | Dozens simultaneously |
| Agents | Single instance | Parallel processing |
The difference: Claude Code doesn’t just give advice - it does the work with you.
The Mindset Shift
From “I need to learn commands” to “I need this outcome”
- You’re learning to orchestrate, not to code
- Describe what you want, Claude figures out how
- The terminal is just where you have conversations
What’s Next
0.1: Installation → - Get Claude Code installed and authenticated