A practical guide to writing effective CLAUDE.md files for .NET projects using Claude Code. Covers the memory hierarchy (enterprise, project, rules, user levels), the WHAT-WHY-HOW framework for structuring instructions, what to include and exclude, and common mistakes to avoid. Includes a production-ready template for .NET Clean Architecture projects, tips for organizing large enterprise solutions using the .claude/rules/ directory, and a comparison of CLAUDE.md with similar context files in Cursor, GitHub Copilot, Windsurf, and Aider. Also touches on advanced features like import syntax, scoped rules via YAML frontmatter, and how CLAUDE.md interacts with custom skills and subagents.
Table of contents
What is CLAUDE.md and Why Does It Matter?Claude Code Memory Hierarchy - How Context is LoadedThe WHAT-WHY-HOW FrameworkWhat to Include (And What NOT to Include)The Complete .NET CLAUDE.md TemplateOrganizing CLAUDE.md for Large .NET Projects.NET Claude KitCommon Mistakes and How to Avoid ThemReal Results: Before and AfterComparing CLAUDE.md with Other AI ToolsPro Tips from Real-World UsageQuick Reference: CLAUDE.md ChecklistFrequently Asked QuestionsBeyond CLAUDE.md: Skills and SubagentsWhat’s Next?Claude Code Tutorial for BeginnersCQRS Pattern in ASP.NET CoreClean Architecture in ASP.NET Core17 Impressions