Field Notes
from Production
Random thoughts, occasional insights, and lessons from breaking things where the stakes were real. 46 pieces; probably a few should have been tweets.
Set up Claude Code so you can review changes as they happen
Keep Claude Code and the result visible at the same time so you can review each change before asking for the next one.
How to use Claude Code subagents for parallel work
Use Claude Code subagents when a focused task can stand alone. Split independent checks, ask for one combined result, and keep dependent work with one owner.
Giving Claude Code better instructions
Give Claude Code the problem, relevant context, and the result you expect. A specific instruction reduces guessing, but you still need to review the result.
How Claude Code sees your files
The folder where you start Claude Code is its main working directory. Keep one project in scope, then add other directories only when the task needs them.
Your first conversation with Claude Code
Create a separate practice folder, then use three prompts to inspect it, create a file, and edit that file while reviewing each action.
Installing Claude Code without the old Node.js setup
Install Claude Code with Anthropic's current native installer on Windows, macOS, or Linux. No Node.js, no npm, and the fixes for when the command is not found.
Opening the terminal for the first time
You need four terminal actions to start Claude Code: open it, run a command, move to the project folder, and close it when you are done.
Meet your AI assistant that actually does things
Claude Code can inspect a project, use development tools, and apply approved changes. Your job is to decide what should happen and check the result.
AdGuard Home: network-wide ad blocking you control
Run your own DNS resolver, see the requests each client sends through it, and apply network-wide rules. Here is what it can control and what it cannot.
Block ads across your home network with AdGuard DNS
Test AdGuard DNS on one device, then apply it through a compatible router for broader coverage. The setup is free, but it has clear limits.