Tutorial • 5 min read

How to Use RepoPrompter with Claude AI

• Complete Guide

RepoPrompter transforms how you work with Claude AI by streamlining the process of sharing code context and applying AI-generated changes. This guide covers everything you need to know to get started.

Why Use RepoPrompter with Claude?

Manually copying and pasting code files to share with Claude is time-consuming and error-prone. RepoPrompter solves this by:

  • Batch File Selection: Select multiple files at once with a visual tree interface
  • Structured Output: Generate properly formatted prompts with file organization
  • XML Diff Processing: Apply Claude's suggested changes directly to your codebase
  • Version Control Integration: Review changes before applying them

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Step 1: Selecting Your Repository

Start by opening RepoPrompter and selecting your project directory:

  1. Click "Open Repository" in the left panel
  2. Navigate to your project folder and select it
  3. RepoPrompter will scan and display your file structure

💡 Pro Tip:

RepoPrompter automatically ignores common build directories and dependencies (node_modules, .git, dist) to keep your file list clean.

Step 2: Choosing Files for Context

Effective file selection is crucial for getting quality responses from Claude:

Best Practices for File Selection:

  • Start Small: Include only files directly related to your question
  • Add Context Gradually: If Claude needs more information, add additional files
  • Include Related Files: Types, interfaces, and configuration files often provide crucial context
  • Mind Token Limits: RepoPrompter shows token estimates to help you stay within Claude's limits

File Selection Strategies:

For Bug Fixes:

  • The problematic file
  • Related test files
  • Type definitions
  • Configuration files

For Refactoring:

  • Files to be refactored
  • Files that import them
  • Shared utilities
  • Documentation

Step 3: Crafting Effective Prompts

The prompt editor in RepoPrompter helps you create clear, actionable requests:

Prompt Template Examples:

Code Review Request:

Please review this React component for:
1. Performance optimizations
2. Accessibility improvements  
3. TypeScript best practices
4. Code organization

Provide specific suggestions with XML diffs for any changes.

Bug Fix Request:

I'm experiencing [specific error description]. 
The error occurs when [steps to reproduce].
Expected behavior: [what should happen]
Actual behavior: [what actually happens]

Please identify the issue and provide a fix using XML diff format.

Step 4: Working with Claude's Response

When Claude responds with suggested changes, RepoPrompter makes it easy to apply them:

  1. Copy the XML diff: Claude will provide changes in XML format
  2. Paste into RepoPrompter: Use the diff viewer in the right panel
  3. Preview changes: Review each file modification before applying
  4. Apply selectively: Choose which changes to accept or reject

⚠️ Important:

Always review changes carefully before applying them. RepoPrompter shows a diff preview so you can see exactly what will change.

Advanced Tips for Better Results

1. Use File Groups

Save frequently used file combinations as groups for quick access in future sessions.

2. Iterative Refinement

Start with a broad question, then ask follow-up questions with additional context files as needed.

3. Specify Output Format

Always request XML diff format when you want to apply changes directly through RepoPrompter.

4. Include Test Files

Including relevant test files helps Claude understand expected behavior and maintain test compatibility.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

  • Including Too Many Files: This can overwhelm Claude and lead to generic responses
  • Vague Prompts: Be specific about what you want Claude to focus on
  • Skipping the Review: Always preview changes before applying them to your codebase
  • Not Using Version Control: Commit your changes before applying AI-generated modifications

Conclusion

RepoPrompter streamlines the entire workflow of working with Claude AI on your codebase. By following these best practices, you'll get better results faster and spend less time on manual file management.

Ready to supercharge your development workflow? Get started with RepoPrompter today.