checkpoint.md

Save a session checkpoint capturing current progress, decisions, and next steps.

Steps

1. Gather current session state:
   • Run git diff --stat to see uncommitted changes.
   • Run git log --oneline -5 to see recent commits.
   • Check for any running background processes or servers.
2. Summarize work completed in this session:
   • Files created, modified, or deleted.
   • Features implemented or bugs fixed.
   • Tests added or modified.
   • Dependencies installed or updated.
3. Document open questions and decisions pending:
   • Architectural choices that need team input.
   • Unclear requirements that need clarification.
   • Trade-offs being considered.
4. List concrete next steps in priority order.
5. Save the checkpoint to .claude/checkpoints/<timestamp>.md.
6. Update CLAUDE.md session notes with a brief summary.
7. Stage and commit if there are meaningful uncommitted changes.

Format

# Checkpoint: <timestamp>

## Completed
- <what was accomplished>

## Current State
- Branch: <branch-name>
- Uncommitted changes: <count>
- Tests: <pass/fail status>

## Open Questions
- <question needing resolution>

## Next Steps
1. <highest priority task>
2. <second priority task>
3. <third priority task>

## Context for Next Session
<anything the next session needs to know>

Rules

• Save checkpoints before switching tasks, ending sessions, or before risky operations.
• Keep checkpoint files under 50 lines for quick scanning.
• Include enough context that a new session can resume without re-reading the codebase.
• Never include secrets or credentials in checkpoint files.
• Clean up checkpoint files older than 30 days.