Glossary

Plain words forAI coding.

Twenty terms you will meet around Claude Code and Adams, each in a line or two.

// terms

Twenty terms

AgentAn AI process that can take steps on its own, such as reading files, running commands and editing code, toward a goal you set.
AGENTS.mdA plain file in a repository that gives coding tools standing instructions about the project. Several tools read it.
API keyA secret string that proves a request comes from you. Anyone who holds it can act as you with that service.
CLAUDE.mdA file of standing instructions that Claude Code reads at the start of each session.
CommitA saved snapshot of your project in git, with a message. Commits are what you return to when something goes wrong.
Context windowThe amount of text a model can consider at once. When a session grows past it, early details fall out of reach.
DriftWork that moves away from the plan you agreed, one reasonable looking step at a time.
Env fileA file, usually named .env, that holds settings and keys outside the code. Git should ignore it.
HandoffA short note of what is done, open and decided, written so a new session can start where the last one stopped.
HookA command that Claude Code runs at a defined moment, such as before a tool call. A hook can block an action.
LiteThe free Adams edition: secret, git and leak guards, install, update and doctor, and a basic English text check.
Orphan wordOne or two words alone on the last line of a paragraph. It reads as unfinished.
PluginAn add on that extends a tool. Adams is a plugin for Claude Code and Copilot CLI.
ProThe paid Adams edition: asks before building, the drift gate, tone checks, memory, visual and design review, any-language rules, stats, blueprints, Hey Adams, review, secure, coach and autopilot.
PromptThe instruction you give an AI tool. A clear prompt names the goal, the limits and the proof.
RollbackReturning a live site or project to an earlier working version.
SpecA short written description of what to build, for whom, with limits and a way to tell it is done.
SubagentA helper agent started by another agent for a narrow job, such as review or search.
Vibe codingBuilding software by describing what you want to an AI and steering the result, with little hand written code.
Viewport widthThe width of the browser window in pixels. Common test widths are 375 for a phone, 768 for a tablet and 1280 for a laptop.