Claude Code asks permission before editing files or running commands. Press Shift+Tab to cycle between normal mode, auto-accept edits and plan mode, where Claude researches and proposes a plan without changing anything.
Why permissions matter
By default Claude Code is cautious: reading files is fine, but editing files and running commands require your approval. When it asks, you can usually:
- Allow once
- Allow and don't ask again for this kind of action (for this session or project)
- Decline and tell Claude what to do instead
You can review and manage saved rules with the /permissions command.
The three everyday modes
Press Shift + Tab to cycle through modes. The current mode shows at the bottom of the screen.
- Normal (labelled Manual on screen): asks before each edit or command. Best when learning or in sensitive code.
- Auto-accept edits: file edits go through without prompts (commands may still ask). Great for flow once you trust the direction.
- Plan mode: Claude can read and research but cannot change anything. It produces a plan for you to approve.
When to use plan mode
Use plan mode when:
- The change touches many files (e.g. migrating a library across 30 files).
- There are several valid approaches and you want to choose.
- Architecture decisions are involved.
- You're new to the codebase.
Skip it for small, well-understood fixes (a single-function bug with a clear error message). A common pro pattern: plan mode to investigate and design, then normal or auto-accept to implement.
Staying safe
--dangerously-skip-permissions exists for isolated, throwaway environments such as sandboxed containers. Never use it on your main machine with access to important files or credentials.- Commit your work to git before big changes so you can roll back.
- Keep secrets (API keys, passwords) out of files Claude reads, or deny access to them in settings.
- Read commands before approving them, especially anything that deletes or deploys.
Check yourself
Three quick questions to check it stuck.
Ask the tutor
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Frequently asked
How do I turn on plan mode in Claude Code?
Press Shift+Tab to cycle modes until plan mode is shown at the bottom of the screen. In plan mode Claude researches and proposes a plan without editing files.
How do I stop Claude Code asking for permission every time?
Choose the "don't ask again" option when prompted, switch to auto-accept edits with Shift+Tab, or add allow rules in your settings.json permissions.
Is it safe to skip permissions in Claude Code?
Only in isolated, disposable environments like a sandboxed container. On your normal computer keep permissions on and review commands before approving them.