# Managing Project Rules

> Creates and updates modular project rules for Claude Code in .claude/rules/ directory. Use when creating, updating, or modifying rule files, organizing project guidelines, setting up code standards, or when user mentions "create rules", "update rules", "add rules", or "rule configuration".

- Skill: `aiskillstore/managing-project-rules` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 3 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add aiskillstore/managing-project-rules`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/aiskillstore/managing-project-rules/raw
- Safety review: pending (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS)
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: aiskillstore (https://skillmd.com/u/aiskillstore)
- Updated: 2026-09-08
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/aiskillstore/managing-project-rules

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**Goal**: Create and maintain focused, well-organized rule files in `.claude/rules/` following Claude Code best practices.

**IMPORTANT**: Rules should be concise, focused, and organized by topic. Follow the reference documentation structure.

## Workflow

### Phase 1: Assessment

- Read reference documentation at `references/project-rules-docs.md`
- Analyze existing rules in `.claude/rules/` to understand patterns
- Check if rule file exists (update vs create)
- Determine rule scope (general vs path-specific)
- Identify appropriate filename and organization

### Phase 2: Configuration

- For updates: read existing file and preserve structure
- Define rule topic and scope clearly
- Structure content with clear sections and lists
- Apply YAML frontmatter for path-specific rules
- Keep content focused on one topic

### Phase 3: Implementation

- Create new or update existing rule file in `.claude/rules/`
- Use subdirectories for better organization if needed
- Validate frontmatter syntax for path-specific rules
- Report completion with file location, scope, and changes made

## Rules

- One topic per rule file (code-style, testing, security)
- Use descriptive filenames (kebab-case)
- Path-specific frontmatter only when truly needed
- For updates: extend sections, remove duplicates, preserve existing content
- Consult user before major structural changes

## Acceptance Criteria

- Rule file created or updated in `.claude/rules/` directory
- Content is focused and well-organized
- YAML frontmatter valid for path-specific rules
- Filename is descriptive and follows kebab-case
- No conflicts with existing rules
- Report includes file location, scope, and summary of changes