---
title: "Usage Guide"
description: "Commands, flags, and workflows for the Codeflash Claude Code plugin"
icon: "book"
sidebarTitle: "Usage Guide"
---

## The `/optimize` skill

`/optimize` is the primary command. It spawns a background optimizer agent that runs the codeflash CLI on your code.

### Syntax

```
/optimize [file] [function] [flags]
```

### Examples

| Command | Effect |
|---------|--------|
| `/optimize` | Let codeflash detect changed files automatically |
| `/optimize src/utils.py` | Optimize all functions in `src/utils.py` |
| `/optimize src/utils.py my_function` | Optimize only `my_function` in that file |
| `/optimize --all` | Optimize the entire project |

Flags can be combined: `/optimize src/utils.py my_function`

### What happens behind the scenes

1. The skill (defined in `skills/optimize/SKILL.md`) forks context and spawns the **optimizer agent**
2. The agent locates your project config (`pyproject.toml`, `package.json`, or `pom.xml`/`gradle.properties`)
3. It verifies the codeflash CLI is installed and the project is configured
4. It runs `codeflash --subagent` as a **background task** with a 10-minute timeout
5. You're notified when optimization completes with results

The agent has up to **15 turns** to complete its work (install codeflash, configure the project, run optimization).

## The `/codeflash:setup` command

`/codeflash:setup` configures auto-permissions so codeflash runs without prompting.

### What it does

1. Finds `.claude/settings.json` in your project root
2. Checks if `Bash(*codeflash*)` is already in `permissions.allow`
3. If not, adds it (creating the file and directory if needed)
4. Preserves any existing settings

<Info>
Running `/codeflash:setup` multiple times is safe — it's idempotent. If permissions are already configured, it reports "No changes needed."
</Info>