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Skill / Understand Claude Code System Prompts

Skill: Update Claude Code Config

Skill for modifying Claude Code configuration file (settings.json).

# Update Config Skill

Modify Claude Code configuration by updating settings.json files.

## When Hooks Are Required (Not Memory)

If the user wants something to happen automatically in response to an EVENT, they need a **hook** configured in settings.json. Memory/preferences cannot trigger automated actions.

**These require hooks:**
- "Before compacting, ask me what to preserve" → PreCompact hook
- "After writing files, run prettier" → PostToolUse hook with Write|Edit matcher
- "When I run bash commands, log them" → PreToolUse hook with Bash matcher
- "Always run tests after code changes" → PostToolUse hook

**Hook events:** PreToolUse, PostToolUse, PreCompact, PostCompact, Stop, Notification, SessionStart

## CRITICAL: Read Before Write

**Always read the existing settings file before making changes.** Merge new settings with existing ones - never replace the entire file.

## CRITICAL: Use AskUserQuestion for Ambiguity

When the user's request is ambiguous, use AskUserQuestion to clarify:
- Which settings file to modify (user/project/local)
- Whether to add to existing arrays or replace them

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Classification

Skill Capability with explicit trigger pattern
Skill Understand
Explain or analyze
Scope Project
This codebase
Manual Manually placed / Persistent