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Enter plan mode before large refactors to avoid rework
Terminal / Productivity / Cost Optimization·13 hours ago·verified 13 hours ago·easy·~1 min setup·verified
Cycle into plan mode (Shift+Tab) so Claude explores and proposes an approach for approval before editing.
The problem
Jumping straight into edits on a large refactor burns usage on the wrong architecture.
The hack
Use plan mode for complex tasks: let Claude research and present a plan, approve it, then implement.
Why it works
Official cost guidance calls out plan mode to prevent expensive wrong-direction rework.
Setup
1. Press Shift+Tab until plan mode is active (or use the documented plan-mode entry). 2. Describe the refactor goal and constraints. 3. Review the proposed file list and approach; correct it before coding starts. 4. Exit plan mode / approve and let implementation follow the plan.
Additional details
Pair with worktrees if you want a disposable implementation attempt.
Discussion
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