What explanatory-output-style is
Injects instructions each session so Claude adds brief insight blocks before and after code.
What it does
Where explanatory-output-style runs and what it adds, from its documentation- Explains implementation choices
- Explains codebase patterns
- Balances task completion with learning
When to use it
Good fit
- Learning a codebase while working
Not for
- Token-sensitive sessions (README warns of extra token cost)
How to install explanatory-output-style
You need: Claude Code
- Marketplace ships enabled by default in Claude Code; or browse via /plugin > Discover
- Install: /plugin install explanatory-output-style@claude-plugins-official
- Run the plugin's commands/agents as described in its README
- Trust check: Anthropic warns to trust a plugin before installing, as it cannot verify included MCP servers, files or software
Permissions and security
What it can access
- Runs inside Claude Code; commands, agents and hooks use Claude Code's tool permissions (see plugin README for specifics)
Security notes from the maintainers
- Marketplace README: make sure you trust a plugin before installing, updating, or using it
Review the source before granting an agent access to credentials or production systems. We document what the maintainers state; we do not audit code.
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Anthropic's agentic coding tool that reads your codebase, edits files and runs commands from the terminal, IDEs, desktop app or browser.
Watch out: Not included in the Free Claude plan, and usage on subscriptions is capped by plan limits.
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Verified
code.claude.com ↗ (opens Claude Code website in a new tab)
Frequently asked questions
How do I install the explanatory-output-style plugin?
Run /plugin install explanatory-output-style@claude-plugins-official in Claude Code. source
Is the explanatory-output-style plugin made by Anthropic?
Yes, it is listed under /plugins (internal plugins developed by Anthropic) in the claude-plugins-official repo. source
What does the explanatory-output-style plugin add to Claude Code?
SessionStart hook adding educational insights on implementation choices (replaces deprecated output style). source
Sources and gaps
Not stated by the maintainers: last_release (not read); limitations not stated in README.
