Model Mode

Configure and query MODEL_MODE settings in CLAUDE.md for task-specific model selection.

3|Updated Jan 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/michelabboud/claude-code-helper --skill model-mode
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Model Mode
Source: https://github.com/michelabboud/claude-code-helper/tree/main/skills/model-mode
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/michelabboud/claude-code-helper --skill model-mode

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Switch between Claude's model modes to optimize for planning, coding, or quick tasks, without manual file edits.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Auto-switching: Automatically select the best model (default, opus-only, sonnet-only, haiku-only, or custom) based on task type.
  • Status & Configuration: Check current mode and update PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL in the CLAUDE.md configuration.
  • Persistence: Writes changes to ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md so the next session uses the updated mode.

Quick Start

Invoke '/model-mode status' to view the current mode, or '/model-mode default' to enable auto-switching.

Frequently Asked Questions about Model Mode

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I switch Claude's model modes for planning or coding tasks without manual file edits?

To switch Claude's model modes without manual file edits, use argument-driven commands to update the MODEL_MODE setting in your CLAUDE.md configuration. The Skill writes changes to ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md, applying the selected default, opus-only, sonnet-only, haiku-only, or custom mode for your next session.

What is the difference between opus-only, sonnet-only, and haiku-only model modes?

Opus-only, sonnet-only, and haiku-only model modes restrict Claude to using a specific model tier for all tasks. The Skill updates PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL variables in your configuration, optimizing for complex reasoning, balanced coding, or fast responses respectively.

How do I check my current model mode configuration in Claude?

You can check your current model mode configuration by invoking the status query command. This reads the MODEL_MODE setting from your ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md file and provides a status report showing whether you are in default, opus-only, sonnet-only, haiku-only, or custom mode.

Does configuring model modes persist across new Claude sessions?

Configuring model modes persists across new Claude sessions because the Skill writes all updates directly to the ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md file. This ensures that the next session automatically applies your updated PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL settings on startup.

Can I set custom model modes for specific planning, coding, and quick tasks?

Yes, you can set custom model modes for specific tasks by configuring the MODE setting in CLAUDE.md. The Skill supports argument-driven switches that let you independently assign different models to PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL, optimizing each task type individually.