What are Slash Commands in Claude Code

Slash Commands are quick shortcuts you type directly in the Claude Code chat interface to execute specific functions without interrupting your workflow. They start with a forward slash and provide instant access to workspace management, MCP operations, and project controls.

How to Use It

Type slash commands directly in the chat interface to execute functions immediately. Commands like /add-dir expand your workspace, /mcp manages Model Context Protocol servers, and project-specific commands handle repository operations.

/add-dir ../backend-api
/mcp
/project status

Custom Slash Commands - You can define your own slash commands as Markdown files in .claude/commands/ (project-specific with /project: prefix) or ~/.claude/commands/ (personal with /user: prefix) to automate frequently used prompts.

Why Use It

Slash commands eliminate the need to restart Claude Code sessions or navigate complex menus for common operations. They provide instant access to workspace expansion, MCP server management, and project controls while maintaining your current conversation context.

Benefits:

• Instant Execution - Commands execute immediately without leaving chat interface
• Workflow Continuity - No need to restart sessions or interrupt conversations
• Workspace Management - Expand directories and manage project scope dynamically
• MCP Integration - Quick access to Model Context Protocol server operations
• Project Controls - Manage repository operations and project settings efficiently
• Custom Automation - Define your own commands for frequently used workflows and prompts

I use slash commands when I need to expand workspace mid-conversation with /add-dir, check MCP server status with /mcp, or manage project operations without breaking my development flow.

Discovery Feature

Claude Code v1.0.25 improved slash command discovery reliability, making it easier to find available commands as you type.

Command Categories

Slash commands include "project" and "user" prefixes in descriptions to help organize functionality by scope and access level.