Start Fresh
Begin with clean context
Continue
Build on shared understanding
Steer
Redirect without resetting
Extract & Reset
Save outputs, then restart
Click a state in the diagram
to learn when and how to use it
Start Fresh
What It Means
Begin a new conversation with zero accumulated context. The model has no history from previous exchanges—only system context and memory.
When to Use
- Switching to a completely new topic
- Previous conversation became noisy/unfocused
- You want a "second opinion" without prior bias
- Starting a task that needs fresh perspective
The Action
Click "New Chat" or use keyboard shortcut. Consider briefly stating relevant context in your first message if needed.
Example
You've been debugging Python code for 20 messages. Now you want help writing a cover letter—start fresh so code context doesn't bleed in.
Continue
What It Means
Keep building within the current conversation. Each exchange adds to shared context, creating compounding understanding.
When to Use
- Iterating on the same document or code
- Asking follow-up questions on same topic
- Refining output through multiple rounds
- Context from earlier messages is still relevant
The Action
Simply send your next message. Reference earlier context naturally: "Now let's..." or "Building on that..."
Example
You're refining a business proposal. Message 1 drafted it, message 2 adjusted tone, message 3 adds metrics. Each builds on the last.
Steer
What It Means
Redirect the conversation's direction without throwing away useful context. A mid-course correction that preserves what's valuable.
When to Use
- Response went in wrong direction
- Need to correct a misunderstanding
- Want to shift focus within same topic
- Output style doesn't match what you need
The Action
Explicitly redirect: "Actually, let's focus on X instead" or "That's not quite right—I meant Y." Be direct about the correction.
Example
"This is too formal. Rewrite in a casual, conversational tone—like I'm explaining to a friend over coffee."
Extract & Reset
What It Means
Save the valuable outputs from the current conversation, then start fresh. You keep the results while shedding accumulated noise.
When to Use
- Conversation got long and unfocused
- Good output buried in messy context
- Need to continue with clean slate + summary
- Moving to next phase of a project
The Action
Copy key outputs or ask Claude to summarize. Start new chat and paste the summary as context: "Continuing from this: [summary]"
Example
After 30 messages refining a project plan, copy the final version. Start fresh: "Here's my project plan. Now help me create the timeline."