Chapter 01 · DESKTOP
Install and find your way around Desktop
Claude Desktop brings chat, task execution and coding into one app, but they are different ways of working. Identify your app version, plan and operating system before looking for a button from someone else's screenshot.
Video
Steps
- Download the app from the official site, install it and sign in to the account you intend to use. Avoid installers from unfamiliar links. Check for updates before practicing.
- Locate conversations, Projects, Artifacts and the available Cowork or Code entry points. Availability varies by plan and rollout. A missing option does not by itself mean installation failed.
- Use Chat for a question or a draft. Choose Cowork for a task involving files and tools, and Code for work on a code project.
- Try a small task with non-sensitive material. Find where the output appears and what requires your approval. Shortcuts and local behavior can differ between operating systems.
Common pitfall: Do not assume every feature in this guide is available on a free account or every operating system.
Hands-on exercise: Open a chat and request a software installation checklist. Do not grant file access yet. Identify the mode you opened and where the conversation is listed.
Filmed demo · Video is added in the media phase
Recap
Comprehension check
What should you check first if Cowork is missing?
Recap
- Install from the official source
- Chat, Cowork and Code are different workflows
- Check availability before practicing