How to Use Claude Cowork
Claude Cowork is a desktop app that lets Claude work with your local files. You choose a folder, describe what you want done, and Claude reads, edits, and creates files inside it. Here's how to get started.
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Download the app
Cowork runs inside the Claude desktop app. Download it from claude.com/download, open it, and select "Cowork" in the sidebar. You'll need a paid Claude plan (Pro, Max, Team, or Enterprise).
Start with a test folder
Create a folder called 'Cowork Test' and copy a few real files into it: a spreadsheet, some PDFs, a Word doc. Point Cowork at this folder, not your entire Documents directory. This keeps things safe while you learn.
Describe outcomes, not steps
Instead of telling Claude each click and keystroke, describe what you want to end up with. Say "Create an expense report from these receipts" rather than "Open each PDF, read the total, then type it into a new Excel file." Cowork figures out the steps.
Set your Global Instructions
Open Settings and find Global Instructions. Tell Claude your role ("I'm a project manager"), your preferred tone ("professional but friendly"), and your document formats ("always use .docx for reports"). This applies to every session automatically. You can also set instructions per folder for different projects.
Set boundaries early
Tell Claude which folders are off-limits and to always ask before deleting or moving files. You can change this later, but starting with guardrails builds trust.
Save workflows you repeat
When you find yourself giving the same instructions twice, save it as a reusable skill. Next time, you run it with a single slash command instead of re-explaining everything.
Ready to try something? Browse all Claude Cowork tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
What plan do I need for Claude Cowork?
Any paid Claude plan: Pro, Max, Team, or Enterprise. Cowork is not available on the free plan.
Does Claude Cowork work on Windows?
Yes. Cowork is available on both macOS and Windows with full feature parity.
Can Claude access all my files?
No. Claude can only access the specific folder you choose to share. It cannot see anything outside of that folder.
Can Claude delete my files?
It can if you ask it to. That's why we recommend telling Claude to always ask for your permission before deleting or moving files.
Is Claude Cowork the same as chatting with Claude?
Not quite. Chat is a back-and-forth conversation. Cowork is more like leaving a task for a coworker. You describe what you need, and Claude works through it while you do other things.
Can I give Claude multiple tasks at once?
Yes. You can queue up several tasks and Claude will work through them, even handling some in parallel.
Can Claude Cowork read images?
Yes. Claude can analyze screenshots, photos, and scanned documents in your folder. That's how it can extract data from receipt photos or read a scanned PDF.
Want to learn more? Read about what Claude Cowork is and how it works.