Claude Code output styles: preserve coding instructions

When to use

• You want a consistent reply structure while retaining coding behavior across a session.[1]

When not to use

• You need deterministic file-access or command-permission restrictions.[1]

File location and original sample

Create a Markdown file in project .claude/output-styles/. User and managed locations are also documented; nested project styles with the same name resolve to the nearest working-directory location. The sample below sets reply order and explicitly retains coding instructions. It is an editable original exercise, not an official supplied style.[1]

---
name: Decision first
description: Start with the decision and its evidence
keep-coding-instructions: true
---
State the decision, show the evidence, and give the next action.
Keep assumptions explicit.

[1]

Why set the retention flag

The docs say to set keep-coding-instructions: true when changing communication while keeping coding behavior, and to omit it when the role will not perform software engineering. A Markdown extension alone does not establish retention. Decide whether the style is a communication preference or a role change, then inspect the frontmatter.[1]

Switching and reloading

Use /output-style or the Output style option in /config to select a style. Current versions apply it from the next message; the docs say versions before v2.1.251 required /clear or a new session. Restart terminal Claude Code after creating or editing style files during a session. Inspect the selected name, actual file and same-name directory precedence; saving a file and loading it in the session are separate checks.[1]

Local checks and boundaries

Offline checks covered frontmatter delimiters, fields and the retention flag. No user configuration, style switch or model request was performed. When adopting it, observe a small explanation task and adjust from the result. A style instructs the model without guaranteeing strict compliance and does not replace permissions or automated acceptance checks.[1]