Model Mode

Configure and query MODEL_MODE settings in CLAUDE.md for task-specific model selection.

3|Updated Jan 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/michelabboud/claude-code-helper --skill model-mode
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Model Mode
Source: https://github.com/michelabboud/claude-code-helper/tree/main/skills/model-mode
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/michelabboud/claude-code-helper --skill model-mode

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Switch between Claude's model modes to optimize for planning, coding, or quick tasks, without manual file edits.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Auto-switching: Automatically select the best model (default, opus-only, sonnet-only, haiku-only, or custom) based on task type.
  • Status & Configuration: Check current mode and update PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL in the CLAUDE.md configuration.
  • Persistence: Writes changes to ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md so the next session uses the updated mode.

Quick Start

Invoke '/model-mode status' to view the current mode, or '/model-mode default' to enable auto-switching.

Frequently Asked Questions about Model Mode

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I switch Claude's model modes for planning or coding tasks without manual file edits?▼

To switch Claude's model modes without manual file edits, use argument-driven commands to update the MODEL_MODE setting in your CLAUDE.md configuration. The Skill writes changes to ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md, applying the selected default, opus-only, sonnet-only, haiku-only, or custom mode for your next session.

What is the difference between opus-only, sonnet-only, and haiku-only model modes?▼

Opus-only, sonnet-only, and haiku-only model modes restrict Claude to using a specific model tier for all tasks. The Skill updates PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL variables in your configuration, optimizing for complex reasoning, balanced coding, or fast responses respectively.

How do I check my current model mode configuration in Claude?▼

You can check your current model mode configuration by invoking the status query command. This reads the MODEL_MODE setting from your ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md file and provides a status report showing whether you are in default, opus-only, sonnet-only, haiku-only, or custom mode.

Does configuring model modes persist across new Claude sessions?▼

Configuring model modes persists across new Claude sessions because the Skill writes all updates directly to the ~/.claude/CLAUDE.md file. This ensures that the next session automatically applies your updated PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL settings on startup.

Can I set custom model modes for specific planning, coding, and quick tasks?▼

Yes, you can set custom model modes for specific tasks by configuring the MODE setting in CLAUDE.md. The Skill supports argument-driven switches that let you independently assign different models to PLAN_MODEL, CODE_MODEL, and QUICK_MODEL, optimizing each task type individually.