Plain-AyI
← All projects
Add-ons for AI coding tools

Karpathy-Inspired Claude Code Guidelines

A ready-made instruction file that nudges Claude Code toward simpler, more careful coding.

Fast-rising

What it does

This project is a single instruction file called CLAUDE.md for Claude Code, an AI coding assistant. The file tells the AI how to behave while it writes code. Its makers say it is based on Andrej Karpathy's observations about common mistakes AI models make when coding.

The file sets out four principles: think before coding, keep things simple, change only what was asked, and work toward clear goals that can be checked, such as passing tests. For example, it asks the AI to state its assumptions, ask questions when unsure, and avoid touching unrelated code.

You can install it as a Claude Code plugin so it applies to all your projects, or add the file to one project. The project also includes a matching rule file for the Cursor code editor. The guidelines favour caution over speed, and you can combine them with your own project rules.

Who it's for

People who use Claude Code or Cursor and want the AI to make fewer unnecessary or overcomplicated changes.

Can I use it without coding?

With some setup. You install it by typing a couple of commands inside Claude Code or by downloading one file into your project. New to this? Start here.

Can I run it?

Cost
Free, but needs an AI accountThe software is free, but it uses an online AI service (like OpenAI or Anthropic), which usually charges for use.

Try it

  1. Open Claude Code and add the project's plugin marketplace.
  2. Install the andrej-karpathy-skills plugin so the guidelines apply to all your projects.
  3. Or, download the CLAUDE.md file into a single project instead.

Using Claude Code, Cursor or another AI coding assistant? Paste the prompt and it will walk you through the setup.New to this?

Before you install

  • Only download from the official GitHub page. Copies with similar names exist for many popular projects.
  • Plain-AyI is an independent guide and doesn't host or review the software it lists. Please check each project's official page before installing.
  • License (MIT, stated in its README): Very permissive: free to use, change and share, including for business.
  • More on staying safe