Memory-First Protocol

Follow this lookup chain in strict order before reading any file, running any search, or spawning any tool. Stop at the first step that answers the question.

Chain

1. Memory

Check .claude/memory/project.md (project) and ~/.claude/memory/personal.md (global preferences).

Use the Grep tool on both files:

Grep pattern="<keyword>" path=".claude/memory/project.md"
Grep pattern="<keyword>" path="~/.claude/memory/personal.md"

If Grep returns matches, use that information and stop. If no matches, proceed to step 2.

2. Grep / Glob

For pattern searches, use the Grep or Glob tools inline. Never read a full file to find a pattern.

3. Targeted Read

Last resort. Only when steps 1–2 cannot answer.

• Always specify offset and limit.
• Max 150 lines per call.
• Know approximately which lines to read before calling.

The pre-tool-use hook blocks Read calls on files >150 lines with no explicit limit. If blocked, return to step 1.