06 | Claude Code with Crazyrouter Series 06: Chapter 3: Getting Started with Basic Operations

06 | Connecting Claude Code to Crazyrouter Series 06: Chapter 3: Getting Started with Basic Operations#

This is article 06 in the Crazyrouter Claude Code series. This article focuses on “Connecting Claude Code to Crazyrouter Series 06: Chapter 3: Getting Started with Basic Operations,” covering Chapter 3: Getting Started with Basic Operations, using the input box, and sending messages.

Unified integration approach: Claude Code / Anthropic native clients use ANTHROPIC_BASE_URL=https://cn.crazyrouter.com; OpenAI-compatible SDKs, HTTP requests, and frontend/backend applications use base_url=https://cn.crazyrouter.com/v1.

What This Article Covers#

• Who this is for: developers who are using Claude Code, preparing to connect to domestic models, or want to unify team API calls through Crazyrouter.
• What you will learn: how to configure environment variables according to the Crazyrouter documentation, organize your workflow, and avoid the /v1/v1/... issue caused by an incorrect Base URL.
• Recommended preparation: first create a separate API Token in the Crazyrouter console, then follow the Claude Code integration documentation to complete the basic setup.

Chapter 3: Getting Started with Basic Operations#

Complete Claude Code installation process

Link:

[Required for installing Claude Code on Windows]

Link:

Claude Code installation video tutorial and hands-on practice

Link:

3.1 Start Your First Conversation

Now that you have installed and configured Claude Code, let’s start your first conversation!

Using the Input Box#

Find the Input Box#

At the bottom of the chat window on the left side of the Claude Code interface, you will see an input box. This is the main area where you communicate with Claude Code.

Enter Your Question#

Type the question or request you want to ask in the input box. For example:

• "Hello, please introduce yourself"
• "Help me write a product introduction"
• "How can I improve work efficiency?"

Supported Operations#

• Multi-line input: press Shift+Enter to insert a line break and enter multiple lines
• Paste text: you can paste text directly from the clipboard
• Delete content: use Backspace or Delete to remove content
• Select all: use Ctrl+A (Windows/Linux) or Cmd+A (macOS) to select all

Sending Messages#

Method 1: Press Enter#

After you finish typing, press Enter to send the message.

Method 2: Click the Send Button#

There is a send button on the right side of the input box, usually shown as a paper-plane icon. Clicking it also sends the message.

Wait for the Reply#

After sending the message, Claude Code will start processing your request and usually replies within a few seconds. You will see:

• A “Thinking...” prompt appears above the input box
• The reply content appears word by word
• After the reply is complete, the prompt disappears

Viewing Replies#

Reply Content#

Claude Code’s replies appear in the conversation history area, usually on the left side, with an AI icon.

Reply Formats#

Replies may contain:

• Plain text: regular written explanations
• Lists: bulleted or numbered lists
• Code blocks: code displayed in a special format, if any
• Tables: structured data, if any

View the Full Reply#

If the reply is long:

• Scroll up to view the full content
• Or scroll within the reply area

Conversation History#

View Previous Conversations#

In the area above the input box, you can see the full conversation history between you and Claude Code:

• The newest messages are at the bottom
• You can scroll up to view earlier conversations
• Each message has a timestamp

Continue the Conversation#

You can enter a new question in the input box at any time to continue the conversation:

• Claude Code remembers the previous conversation context
• You can reference earlier content and ask follow-up questions
• You can switch topics and start a new discussion

Clear the Conversation#

If you want to start a new conversation:

• Click the “New Conversation” button in the toolbar
• Or find the “Clear History” option in settings
• This clears the current conversation history and starts a brand-new conversation

First Conversation Examples#

Let’s try a few simple conversations:

Example 1: Self-Introduction#

You: Hello, please introduce yourself in one sentence.

Claude: Hello! I’m Claude, an AI assistant developed by Anthropic. I can help you with tasks such as working with text, analyzing data, and writing code.

Example 2: Simple Task#

You: Help me write a simple meeting notice.

Claude: Sure, here is a meeting notice template:

Meeting Notice

Dear colleagues,

A meeting on [meeting topic] is scheduled for [date] at [time] in [location].

Meeting agenda:

1. [Agenda item 1]
2. [Agenda item 2]
3. [Agenda item 3]

Please attend on time.

[Sender]

[Send date]

Example 3: Provide Suggestions#

You: How can I improve work efficiency?

Claude: Here are a few suggestions for improving work efficiency:

1. Make a plan: list the tasks you need to complete before starting each day
2. Manage priorities: distinguish between important and urgent tasks, and handle priorities first
3. Stay focused: avoid multitasking and work on one thing at a time
4. Take proper breaks: take short breaks after working for a period of time to maintain energy
5. Use tools: use suitable tools, such as Claude Code, to support your work

Tips#

1. Be clear: describe your needs in clear, specific language whenever possible
2. Provide context: if the question is complex, include some background information
3. Ask step by step: break complex questions into smaller questions and ask them one by one
4. Give feedback: if the reply does not meet your expectations, tell Claude Code so it can adjust its answer
5. Save useful replies: copy useful replies and save them elsewhere

Now, try starting your first conversation with Claude Code!

3.2 Specify and Work with Files#

As a VS Code extension, Claude Code can directly access and operate on all files in your workspace without manual uploads. Let’s learn how to specify and work with files efficiently.

Understanding Workspace File Access#

Claude Code is directly integrated into your VS Code workspace. This means:

• No uploads needed: your files are already in the workspace, and Claude Code can access them directly
• Real-time sync: any changes you make to files are immediately reflected in Claude Code’s operations
• Full permissions: Claude Code can read, edit, and create any file in your workspace

Ways to Specify Files#

Method 1: Use the @ Symbol to Specify a File#

This is the most common and accurate method. After typing @ in the chat box, a file list will automatically appear for selection.

Example:

@main.js Please help me optimize the performance of this code

Tips:

1. After typing @, all files in the current workspace are displayed
2. You can type part of a file name to filter the list
3. Tab is supported for quick selection
4. You can specify multiple files: @file1.js @file2.js

Method 2: Use the File Path Directly#

If you know the full path of the file, you can mention it directly in the conversation.

Example:

Please help me analyze the file src/components/Header.tsx

Method 3: Describe the File Location#

Describe where the file is located so Claude Code can find it.

Example:

Please help me modify the utils.js file under the src directory

File Operation Types#

Read File Content#

Ask Claude Code to read and analyze a file:

@config.json Please read and explain this configuration file

Edit File Content#

Modify specific content in a file:

@app.js Please change all console.log calls to logger.info

Create a New File#

Ask Claude Code to create a new file:

Please create a new component file src/components/Button.jsx that contains a clickable button

Delete a File#

Delete an unnecessary file:

Please delete the file test-old.js

Rename a File#

Rename a file:

Please rename old-name.js to new-name.js

Batch File Operations#

Operate on Multiple Files#

You can specify multiple files to operate on at the same time:

@file1.js @file2.js @file3.js Please help me add error handling to these files

Work with an entire directory#

Perform operations on files in an entire directory:

Please help me add type annotations to all files under the src/utils directory

File search and navigation#

Search file contents#

Search for specific content in files:

Please search the project for all lines of code that contain "TODO"

Find a specific function#

Find the definition of a function:

Please help me find the definition of the calculateTotal function in the project

Find references#

Find all references to a function or variable:

Please help me find every place in the project where useState is used

File type support#

Claude Code mainly works with code files and text files, and handles different types in different ways:

Code files#

• Supported formats: .js, .ts, .jsx, .tsx, .py, .java, .go, .rs, .cpp, .c, .php, etc.
• How it works: can understand code logic, refactor code, add comments, fix bugs, and more
• Example:

@app.tsx Please help me optimize the performance of this React component

Configuration files#

• Supported formats: .json, .yaml, .yml, .xml, .toml, .ini, etc.
• How it works: can parse configuration, change settings, validate formats, and more
• Example:

@package.json Please help me add a new dependency

Text files#

• Supported formats: .txt, .md, .csv, etc.
• How it works: can read content, perform text analysis, convert formats, and more
• Example:

@README.md Please help me update the installation instructions in the documentation

Style files#

• Supported formats: .css, .scss, .sass, .less, etc.
• How it works: can optimize styles, add responsive design, and more
• Example:

@styles.css Please help me convert this stylesheet to a responsive design

Practical examples#

Example 1: Refactor code#

You: @UserService.js Please help me refactor this file and replace callback functions with async/await

Claude: Sure, I’ve refactored the UserService.js file. Main changes:

1. Replaced all callback functions with async/await syntax
2. Added appropriate error handling
3. Improved the code structure for better readability
4. Added JSDoc comments

Example 2: Add a feature#

You: @TodoList.jsx Please help me add a feature for deleting to-do items

Claude: I’ve added the delete feature to TodoList.jsx:

1. Added a deleteTodo function
2. Added a delete button to each to-do item
3. Added a confirmation dialog to prevent accidental deletion
4. Updated the component state management

Example 3: Fix a bug#

You: @login.js User login always fails. Please help me find the issue

Claude: I found several issues:

1. The URL in the API request was misspelled
2. The error-handling logic was incomplete
3. Network timeout cases were not handled

I’ve fixed these issues, and the login feature should now work properly.

Example 4: Code review#

You: @PaymentService.ts Please review the code for this payment service and identify potential security issues

Claude: After reviewing it, I found the following security issues:

1. Sensitive information (API keys) is hardcoded directly in the code
2. Input validation is missing, which may lead to SQL injection
3. The payment amount is not verified a second time
4. Error messages expose too many system details

Recommended fixes...

Example 5: Batch changes#

You: @api/*.js Please help me add request timeout settings to all API files

Claude: I’ve added request timeout settings to all .js files under the src/api directory:

• Set a default timeout of 30 seconds
• Added timeout error handling
• Standardized the error response format

Modified the following files:

• userApi.js
• productApi.js
• orderApi.js
• paymentApi.js

Advanced tips#

Use relative paths#

When there are many files, relative paths are clearer:

Please help me modify the formatDate function in ./src/utils/helpers.js

Combine with directory operations#

Locate a directory first, then work with files:

Please help me create a new Card component under the src/components directory

Use file descriptions#

When you’re not sure of the file name, you can describe it:

Please help me find and modify the file that handles user login

Context awareness#

Claude Code automatically understands context based on your operation history:

(Previously worked on UserService.js)
Please help me add a user logout feature as well

Reference code snippets#

You can reference specific parts of the code:

@App.tsx Please help me optimize the rendering logic on lines 45-60

Notes#

1. File paths: make sure file paths are correct, and use / as the path separator
2. File permissions: make sure Claude Code has permission to access and modify the files
3. Back up important files: before making large-scale changes, it’s recommended to create a backup
4. Workspace scope: Claude Code can only work with files in the current workspace
5. File size: for very large files, it’s recommended to process them in batches

Now try specifying a file with the @ symbol and let Claude Code help you work on it!

3.3 Basic text generation#

One of the most common uses of Claude Code is generating all kinds of text content. Let’s learn how to use it to generate high-quality text.

Write simple copy#

Product description#

Ask Claude Code to write a product description for you:

You: Please help me write a product description for a smartwatch. Its main features include health monitoring, workout tracking, and message notifications.

Claude: Sure, here is a product description for a smartwatch:

Smartwatch — Your partner for a healthier lifestyle

This smartwatch is the perfect assistant for your daily life. It integrates advanced health monitoring features that track key health metrics such as your heart rate, blood oxygen, and sleep quality in real time, helping you stay aware of your physical condition at all times.

With multiple built-in workout modes, it can accurately record your exercise data whether you’re running, swimming, or cycling, helping you train more scientifically. Smart message notifications make sure you never miss anything important, including calls, text messages, and social app notifications.

Its stylish, minimalist design pairs with a high-definition touch screen for smooth and convenient operation. With ultra-long battery life, a single charge lasts up to 7 days, making your smart life worry-free.

Ad copy#

Generate engaging ad copy:

You: Please help me write ad copy for a coffee shop. It should feel warm and appealing.

Claude: Here is a warm coffee shop ad:

[A cup of coffee to warm the whole afternoon]

In the rush of city life, everyone needs a corner where they can slow down.

Our baristas roast every coffee bean with care, all to bring you the purest coffee aroma. Whether it’s your first latte in the morning or a pour-over in the afternoon, every cup brings a full sense of warmth.

Here, time seems to slow down. You can read quietly, work, or simply let your mind wander. We offer free Wi-Fi and comfortable seating, so you can enjoy time that’s truly your own.

New store opening: 20% off all coffee! We look forward to seeing you.

📍 Address: [your address]

⏰ Hours: 8:00 - 22:00

Social media content#

Generate content suitable for social media:

You: Please help me write a Moments post about sharing my experience of having a picnic in the park over the weekend.

Claude: Here is a Moments post:

The weekend sunshine was absolutely beautiful! 🌞

I went for a picnic in the park with friends. We spread out a picnic blanket, laid out the food we had carefully prepared, and it felt like the whole world became a little softer.

Blue sky, white clouds, green grass, and the laughter of good friends — this is my ideal weekend. 🥪🍇

The food was simple, but in a setting like this, every bite tasted especially good. Life doesn’t need to be too complicated. Sometimes, one sunny afternoon is enough to heal you.

#WeekendVibes #Picnic #LifeMoments

Generate lists#

To-do list#

Generate a structured to-do list:

You: Please help me generate a to-do list for starting a project.

Claude: Here is a to-do list for starting a project:

Project startup to-do list

Phase 1: Preparation

• Define project goals and scope

• Assemble the project team

• Assign roles and responsibilities

• Create the project timeline Phase 2: Resource preparation

• Prepare the project budget

• Request the necessary tools and software

• Prepare the workspace

• Configure the development environment

Phase 3: Kickoff meeting

• Prepare kickoff meeting materials
• Notify all relevant stakeholders
• Hold the project kickoff meeting
• Distribute project documents

Phase 4: Follow-up

• Track progress on each task
• Hold regular progress meetings
• Update the project plan
• Record issues and risks

Checklist-style content#

Generate different types of checklists:

You: Please help me create a travel essentials checklist.

Claude: Here is a travel essentials checklist:

Travel Essentials Checklist

Documents

• ID card/passport
• Flight/train tickets
• Hotel booking confirmation
• Driver's license (if you plan to drive)

Clothing

• Changes of clothes (prepare based on the number of days)
• Underwear
• Socks
• Pajamas
• Jacket/coat (prepare based on the weather)

Toiletries

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Shampoo and body wash
• Towel
• Skincare products
• Cosmetics (if needed)

Electronics

• Phone and charger
• Power bank
• Earphones/headphones
• Camera (if needed)
• Power adapter (needed for international travel)

Medication

• Commonly used medications
• Bandages
• Motion sickness medicine
• Cold medicine

Other

• Umbrella
• Water bottle
• Snacks
• Tissues

Rewrite text#

Polish text#

Make the text smoother and more polished:

You: Please help me polish this text: This product is easy to use, has many features, and is not expensive. I think everyone can buy it.

Claude: Polished version:

This product performs exceptionally well, offers a rich and diverse set of features, and is affordably priced, making it highly recommended. Whether for everyday use or specific needs, it delivers a strong experience and offers excellent value for money.

Change the tone#

Adjust the tone and style of the text:

You: Please rewrite this text in a more formal tone: Hello everyone, today we're going to talk about how to use this software. It's very simple, just follow along with me.

Claude: Formal version:

Hello everyone. Today, we will introduce how to use this software. This tutorial will proceed step by step to ensure that every participant can master the key operations. Please follow our guidance as we learn each feature of the software.

Simplify text#

Make complex text more concise and easier to understand:

You: Please help me simplify this text: Given the complexity and uncertainty of the current market environment, we need to adopt a more cautious and robust strategy to address the various challenges and risks that may arise.

Claude: Simplified version:

Because the market environment is complex and constantly changing, we need to adopt a cautious and robust strategy to handle various challenges and risks.

Summarize content#

Summarize long text#

Extract the core points from a long text:

You: Please summarize the main content of this text. (Paste a long text.)

Claude: The main content of this text can be summarized as follows:

1. Core point: Artificial intelligence technology is developing rapidly and having a profound impact across industries
2. Main trends: AI use cases continue to expand, from simple automation to complex decision support
3. Challenges and opportunities: Although there are technical, ethical, and other challenges, AI also brings significant growth opportunities
4. Future outlook: AI is expected to become more widespread in the coming years and become an important part of daily life and work

Extract key information#

Extract specific information from text:

You: Please extract all action items from these meeting notes.

Claude: Action items extracted from the meeting notes:

1. Zhang San: Complete the first draft of the project proposal (deadline: this Friday)
2. Li Si: Contact suppliers to confirm pricing (deadline: next Tuesday)
3. Wang Wu: Prepare presentation materials (deadline: next Monday)
4. Everyone: Attend the project review meeting (time: next Wednesday at 2:00 PM)

Tips#

1. Provide more details: When requesting generated text, providing more details helps produce results that better match your needs
2. Specify the word count: You can request text of a specific length, such as "write a 200-word introduction"
3. Specify the style: You can specify the style of the text, such as "write it in a humorous style"
4. Try multiple times: If you are not satisfied with the first result, you can ask it to regenerate or adjust the requirements
5. Save useful templates: For text types you use often, save them as templates so you can reuse them directly next time

Now, try asking Claude Code to help you generate some text!

Related reading#

• Previous article: Article 05
• Next article: Article 07
• Configuration docs: Connect Claude Code to Crazyrouter
• API endpoint guide: Base URL and /v1 usage
• One-click configuration script: Crazyrouter Claude Code one-click configuration script

Start connecting to Crazyrouter#

If you are ready to connect Claude Code, Chinese models, or your own application to Crazyrouter in one place, follow this order:

1. Go to the Crazyrouter console, create a dedicated API Token, and manage permissions separately by project or team.
2. Claude Code uses the root domain: https://cn.crazyrouter.com; OpenAI-compatible SDKs use: https://cn.crazyrouter.com/v1.
3. When you need to automatically check the environment or quickly write configuration, use the Crazyrouter Claude Code one-click configuration script.
4. If debugging fails, check the console logs first, then verify the API Endpoint guide, with special attention to whether the Base URL has an extra /v1.

When you need to evaluate model costs or choose different models, first check the Crazyrouter pricing and models page, then add frequently used models to the Token allowlist.