What a Claude Memory File Is
Claude has no memory between conversations. Every conversation starts fresh. A Claude memory file is your workaround -- a document that contains the context Claude would have if it did have memory. You maintain it, upload it to your project, and update it when meaningful things change.
Think of it as the briefing document you would give a highly capable new advisor on their first day. Everything they need to know to advise you well -- without you having to explain it again.
The difference from a Business Context Document: a Business Context Document covers stable background facts. A memory file is dynamic -- it includes recent decisions, current projects in detail, what you just tried, and what you are about to do next.
What Goes in a Claude Memory File
Stable context: Who you are, your brand, your audience, your voice rules. This section rarely changes.
Current projects: What you are actively building, the status of each, what decisions have been made and why.
Recent decisions: Major decisions made in the last thirty days with brief rationale. Prevents Claude from recommending things you have already decided against.
Current priorities: What you are focused on this week. Updated weekly. The most important section for ensuring Claude advises the present version of your business.
Known constraints: Things Claude should know not to suggest -- tools you do not use, approaches you have tried and rejected, boundaries that are non-negotiable.