From CLI to Platform: Claude Code's Extension System

Description

Using Claude Code out of the box is like using VS Code with zero extensions. You're technically using it, but you're fundamentally missing it. Claude Code isn't just a smart CLI assistant. It's a programmable AI platform with seven extensibility layers: CLAUDE.md files, commands, hooks, skills, sub-agents, plugins, and MCP servers. Each serves a different purpose, and understanding when to use which one transforms how you work. In this video, I break down every extensibility mechanism in Claude Code. You'll learn what each one does, when to use it, and how they all fit together. From always-on project context with CLAUDE.md to event-driven automation with hooks to progressive knowledge loading with skills - this is the complete guide. Whether you're just getting started or looking to level up your Claude Code setup, this breakdown will help you build the AI assistant you actually need. ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 Introduction 1:54 CLAUDE.md - The Foundation 3:31 Commands - Explicit Shortcuts 5:21 Hooks - Event-Driven Automation 6:57 Skills - Progressive Disclosure 9:35 Sub-Agents - Isolated Context 11:52 Plugins - Distribution Layer 13:15 MCP Servers - External Integration 14:21 How to Choose the Right One 16:06 Putting It All Together 🔗 LINKS & RESOURCES Claude Code Documentation https://docs.anthropic.com/en/docs/claude-code Agent Skills Open Standard https://agentskills.io Claude Plugins Marketplace https://github.com/anthropics/claude-plugins-official Join the Discord Community https://discord.gg/PKgAUuGnGG Follow on X/Twitter https://x.com/thegraytcat 🐱 THE GRAY CAT AI meets code. Building next-generation software with modern AI tooling. Covering AI IDEs, Claude Code, MCP integrations, and TypeScript/Node.js development. New videos every week. Subscribe and hit the bell!