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Include Project File Tree in CLAUDE.md

Including your project's file tree in your CLAUDE.md file helps Claude Code navigate files faster and understand your codebase structure at a glance.

Why This Helps​

  • Faster Navigation: Claude can quickly understand your project structure without searching
  • Better Context: Reduces the back-and-forth needed to clarify file locations
  • Improved Code Suggestions: Claude provides more accurate, context-aware suggestions
  • Large Codebase Support: Essential for projects with 100+ files where Claude might get lost

How to Generate File Tree​

Basic Command​

tree .

Exclude Specific Folders​

Use the -I argument to exclude folders like node_modules, dist, .git, etc.:

tree . -I "node_modules|dist|.git|build|coverage"

Example CLAUDE.md Structure​

# Project Overview

Brief description of your project.

## File Structure

```
your-project/
├── src/
│   ├── components/
│   │   ├── Header.tsx
│   │   └── Footer.tsx
│   ├── pages/
│   │   ├── Home.tsx
│   │   └── About.tsx
│   └── utils/
│       └── helpers.ts
├── tests/
│   └── components/
├── package.json
└── README.md
```

## Key Components

- `src/components/` - Reusable UI components
- `src/pages/` - Application pages
- `src/utils/` - Helper functions and utilities

Best Practices​

  1. Keep It Updated: Update the tree when you add/remove significant files or folders
  2. Be Selective: Use exclusion patterns to avoid cluttering with temporary or generated files
  3. Add Context: Include brief descriptions of what each major directory contains
  4. Consider Size: For very large projects (12,000+ files), consider showing only top-level structure or key directories

Token Considerations​

For large projects, be mindful of token usage. You can:

  • Show only directory structure without individual files
  • Focus on the most important parts of your codebase
  • Use abbreviated trees for different sections

💡 Pro tip: Even an outdated tree is better than no tree at all. Claude can still use it as a general guide to your project structure.

Source​

This tip comes from the Reddit community discussion: Quick tip for Claude Code: include your project's file tree in CLAUDE.md