Back to Workshop resources
Claude Code1 min read
Reading Claude Code's diffs — the non-developer's guide.
A diff shows what changed. Here's how to read one in 30 seconds and decide whether to accept.
Overview
Claude Code shows you a diff for every file it wants to change. If you're not a developer, the diff format looks scary. It's actually simple, and learning to read it is the difference between trusting Claude and second-guessing it.
What a diff actually shows
Lines with
- (red) are being removed. Lines with + (green) are being added. Everything else is context — surrounding code that's not changing.What to look for
• Does the change match what you asked for? If you asked for a hero copy change, only hero copy should be in the diff.
• Are any imports / files being removed that you didn't expect? Investigate.
• Is the file being renamed or moved? Make sure that's intentional.
When in doubt, ask
"Walk me through this diff line by line." Claude will explain in plain English.
PreviousWhen to start a fresh Claude Code conversation.Next Common Claude Code mistakes (and how to avoid them).
Want to Apply This to Your Business?
We're a Singapore AI development and automation agency. Let's discuss how we can help solve your specific challenges.