managing-claude-memory

CLAUDE.md files use a four-level hierarchy: Enterprise Policy, Project Memory, User Memory, and Project Memory (Local). Claude prioritizes memory files in this order, so organize context at the appropriate level—enterprise-wide guidelines at the top, project-specific rules in the middle, and local overrides at the bottom. Use Markdown headings and the @path import syntax to structure modular, scalable memory without duplication.

Structure CLAUDE.md with logical Markdown sections, use emphasis markers (bold/italics) for critical rules, and keep content concise and actionable. For example, add a "Critical Rules" section stating that all database migrations must be reviewed by two senior engineers. Avoid sensitive data and large code blocks; focus on guidelines that guide Claude's behavior consistently.

Yes, use the @path/to/import syntax to reference memory files across your hierarchy, supporting up to five recursive imports. This lets you maintain shared guidelines in a central Enterprise Policy file and import them into Project Memory files, eliminating redundant explanations and ensuring consistent context across teams.

Without structured CLAUDE.md management, teams duplicate context, lose track of which memory files apply, and fail to cascade guidelines through the hierarchy. A hierarchical system with clear import rules and organized sections ensures Claude always receives the right context, preventing inconsistent behavior and wasted tokens on repeated explanations.

Avoid storing sensitive data (passwords, API keys, PII), large code blocks, and unstructured notes in CLAUDE.md. Keep content token-efficient and actionable; CLAUDE.md is for behavioral guidelines and context, not a code repository or secrets vault. Use emphasis markers sparingly to highlight only the most critical rules.