hook-development

Claude Code hooks are event-driven building blocks for plugins that enforce policies, validate tool use, and automate workflows across lifecycle events like PreToolUse, PostToolUse, Stop, and SessionStart. They enable safe, context-aware automation within the plugin ecosystem.

You can create prompt-based hooks by defining configurations in a hooks.json file. This approach reduces scripting needs by using advanced prompt patterns to govern tool use, validate inputs, and load context safely across various plugin lifecycle events.

Use PreToolUse hooks to enforce security policies and validate actions before a tool executes, preventing unsafe operations. PostToolUse hooks manage event-driven workflows and context loading after execution, ensuring structured lifecycle management and reliable integration.

Yes, Claude Code supports both prompt-based and command hooks. The skill provides comprehensive guidance on configuration formats, lifecycle management, and best practices for both types, enabling robust testing patterns and reliable integration with CLAUDE_PLUGIN_ROOT and environment handling.

The best way to manage cross-event workflows is by implementing structured hook definitions across lifecycle events. This approach utilizes real-world patterns for validation and context loading, ensuring robust testing and reliable integration with CLAUDE_PLUGIN_ROOT and environment variables.