memory-overview

Explain Claude Code memory types, loading order, and resource paths.

Updated Jan 8, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/biwakonbu/cc-plugins --skill memory-overview
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: memory-overview
Source: https://github.com/biwakonbu/cc-plugins/tree/main/plugins/memory-optimizer/skills/memory-overview
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/biwakonbu/cc-plugins --skill memory-overview

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill clarifies how Claude Code's memory system organizes and exposes memory resources to help teams manage project-wide instructions, rules, and user settings with fewer handoffs and less confusion.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Memory map overview: explains the types and locations of memory resources (Project Memory, Project Rules, User Memory, Local Memory, Enterprise) and how they are loaded during sessions.
  • Guided session loading: helps users understand the order in which memories are loaded and how to inspect or influence them.
  • Use Case: When starting a Claude Code project, quickly review memory layout to ensure the correct instructions are active for the current context.

Quick Start

Use this skill to understand Claude Code's memory layout and how memories are loaded in a session.

Frequently Asked Questions about memory-overview

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How does Claude Code's memory system organize project instructions and rules?

Claude Code's memory system organizes instructions into Project Memory, Project Rules, User Memory, Local Memory, and Enterprise tiers. It exposes these resources through CLAUDE.md files and .claude/rules directories, loading them in a specific order during sessions.

What is the loading order for memory files in a Claude Code session?

The session loading order follows a structured hierarchy, starting from Enterprise and User Memory down to Project Memory and Project Rules. This skill maps the exact sequence, helping you inspect or influence which instructions are active for the current context.

How do I set up CLAUDE.md and .claude/rules for a new Claude Code project?

To set up project memory, you create CLAUDE.md files and populate the .claude/rules directory. This skill guides you through the memory layout, ensuring the correct instructions and paths are referenced and active during onboarding.

Can I use the imports mechanism to load external rules into Claude Code memory?

Yes, the memory system supports an imports mechanism to reference and load external rules. This skill outlines how to leverage imports alongside CLAUDE.md and .claude/rules paths to manage project-wide instructions with fewer handoffs.

Why are my Claude Code project rules not applying during the current session?

Project rules may not apply due to incorrect loading order or misplaced paths within the memory hierarchy. Use this skill to debug memory usage by reviewing the memory map, verifying CLAUDE.md locations, and checking the session loading sequence.

When do I need to configure User Memory versus Local Memory in Claude Code?

Configure User Memory for cross-project personal settings and Local Memory for session-specific or environment-specific instructions. This skill clarifies these memory types, helping you choose the right tier to manage instructions effectively.