Warn about risky code patterns when Claude edits files.
hooksAnthropic repository149,376 repo starsRepo updated Oct 3, 2026
Explanatory Output Style
Add educational implementation context at the start of a session.
SessionStart
About Explanatory Output Style
Explanatory Output Style adds instructions at session start that encourage Claude to explain implementation choices while working. It is useful for learning an unfamiliar codebase or understanding the reasoning behind a change. The plugin changes the style of the interaction through a hook, so its effect is broader than a single prompt.
- A SessionStart hook for explanatory guidance.
- Implementation insights alongside development work.
- A plugin-based alternative to repeating style instructions.
How to install
Open the source documentation to check prerequisites and installation scope. Copy the commands below and run them one line at a time. Replace any example paths with the directory you intend to use.
Claude Code
/plugin marketplace add anthropics/claude-code
/plugin install explanatory-output-style@claude-code-pluginsComplete any authentication or settings steps documented by the maintainer, then reload the session and confirm the capability is available. Entries in the same repository may share a parent plugin installation.
Getting started
Enable the plugin and start a new Claude Code session. Ask for a small change and check whether the amount of explanation suits your workflow.
Before you use it
SessionStart hooks run automatically when a session begins.