Using /compact for Long Sessions

Manage context in lengthy conversations

Using /compact for Long Sessions

Long conversations use tokens. /compact helps you work longer without losing context.

The Problem

Claude has a context window (how much it can remember). As you chat:

Terminal

> /cost

Context used: 180,000 / 200,000 tokens

⚠️ Approaching context limit!

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When you hit the limit, Claude forgets early parts of the conversation.

The Solution: /compact

Terminal

> /compact

Compacting conversation...

Summary created:

- Project: Aussie Coffee Finder

- Tech: Next.js, Tailwind, Supabase

- Completed: Homepage, menu, cart

- In progress: Checkout flow

- Current file: src/app/checkout/page.tsx

Context reduced: 180,000 → 45,000 tokens

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Tip

Use /compact when you see token usage above 60-70%. Don't wait until you hit the limit!

When to Compact

Good times to compact:

Situation	Action
Tokens > 70%	/compact
Switching features	/compact
Claude seems confused	/compact
Long debugging session	/compact
Starting new phase	/compact

What Gets Preserved

After compacting, Claude remembers:

✅ Project structure and tech stack
✅ Key decisions made
✅ Current task context
✅ Important file locations
✅ Your preferences and rules

What gets summarized:

🔄 Step-by-step conversation
🔄 Intermediate code attempts
🔄 Debugging exploration
🔄 Rejected alternatives

Aussie Note

Think of /compact like taking meeting notes. You don't remember every word, but you remember the decisions! 📝

Manual Summaries

Sometimes, add your own context:

Terminal

> /compact

> To clarify: we're building a checkout that:

> 1. Shows cart items with GST breakdown

> 2. Collects Australian shipping addresses

> 3. Integrates with Stripe (AUD)

> 4. Sends order confirmation email

> We've completed steps 1-2, now doing step 3.

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Key Takeaways

/compact reduces token usage while keeping context
Use when approaching 70% of context limit
Claude preserves key decisions and project state
Add your own summary for important details

Module 4 Quiz

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