Feature Request Add Model Flag For Claude Sonnet And Opus Selection In Claude Code

Hey guys! Today, we're diving into an exciting feature request aimed at supercharging Claude Code. This enhancement focuses on adding a --model flag, giving you the flexibility to switch between Claude models like Sonnet and Opus on the fly. Let’s break down why this is a game-changer and how it will make your lives easier.

The Core Idea: A --model Flag for Claude Code

The heart of this feature request is simple but powerful: introducing a --model flag that works seamlessly across all /sc:* commands within Claude Code. This means you can specify which Claude model to use (Sonnet, Opus, or future models) directly in your command, without needing to fiddle with configuration files. Think of it as having a universal remote for your Claude models – super convenient, right?

Why This Matters

In the fast-paced world of AI and development, flexibility is key. Different tasks often benefit from different models. Sonnet might be perfect for quick, creative brainstorming, while Opus could be your go-to for more complex, analytical tasks. The current setup requires you to change the default model in your configuration, which can be a bit of a hassle if you’re constantly switching between tasks. This new flag addresses that pain point directly.

Imagine you’re working on a project that involves both creative content generation and rigorous code analysis. With the --model flag, you can use Sonnet for drafting compelling copy and then switch to Opus for scrutinizing your code, all within the same session. This level of agility can significantly boost your productivity and streamline your workflow. Plus, it future-proofs your setup, making it easy to incorporate new models as they become available.

Real-World Examples

Let’s get down to brass tacks and look at how this would work in practice. Here are a couple of examples to illustrate the power of the --model flag:

1. /sc:build --model opus: This command tells Claude Code to use the Opus model for the build process. Opus, known for its robust analytical capabilities, would ensure a thorough and efficient build.
2. /sc:analyze --model sonnet: In this case, we're instructing Claude Code to use the Sonnet model for analysis. Sonnet’s creative strengths could help identify innovative solutions and fresh perspectives during the analysis phase.

These examples highlight the ease and clarity the --model flag brings to your workflow. By specifying the model directly in the command, you eliminate any ambiguity and ensure you’re using the right tool for the job. It’s all about making your interactions with Claude Code as intuitive and efficient as possible.

Diving Deeper: Behavior, Scope, and UX

Now, let’s zoom in on the nitty-gritty details of how this feature would behave and how it would impact your user experience (UX). We want to ensure this addition is not only powerful but also intuitive and user-friendly.

Allowed Values: Sonnet, Opus, and Beyond

For starters, the --model flag would accept a predefined set of values, including sonnet and opus. These are the models we're focusing on initially, but the design is future-proof. As more models become available, they can be easily added to the list of allowed values. This forward-thinking approach ensures that Claude Code remains adaptable and versatile as the AI landscape evolves.

Command-Specific Overrides

One of the key aspects of this feature is its non-persistent nature. When you use the --model flag, it only overrides the model setting for that specific command run. This means that your default configuration remains untouched, and you have complete control over when and where to use each model. It's like having a temporary superpower – you can activate it when you need it, and it doesn't mess with your everyday settings.

This approach is particularly beneficial when you have a preferred default model but occasionally need to leverage the strengths of another model. For example, you might typically use Opus for most tasks but want to use Sonnet for a quick brainstorming session. The --model flag allows you to do this without the hassle of changing your global settings.

User Experience (UX) Considerations

User experience is paramount, and we want to ensure this feature is as user-friendly as possible. Here’s how we plan to make it shine:

• --help Integration: The --model flag will be prominently displayed in the --help output for all relevant commands. This ensures that users are aware of the option and understand how to use it. Clear and accessible documentation is crucial for adoption and usability.
• Comprehensive Documentation: We'll also include detailed documentation in the Flags Guide and Commands Reference. This documentation will provide in-depth explanations of the flag’s behavior, allowed values, and use cases. The goal is to provide users with all the information they need to confidently use the --model flag in their workflows.

By prioritizing UX, we can ensure that this feature is not only powerful but also a joy to use. We want to empower you to make the most of Claude Code, and a well-designed user experience is a key part of that.

The Road Ahead: Future-Proofing and Scalability

Looking ahead, this feature lays a strong foundation for future enhancements and scalability. The ability to dynamically switch between models opens up a world of possibilities, and we're excited to explore them.

Future Model Integration

As mentioned earlier, the design is inherently future-proof. When new models are introduced, adding them to the list of allowed values for the --model flag is straightforward. This means that you can seamlessly integrate the latest advancements in AI into your workflows without significant disruptions. It’s about building a system that grows with you and adapts to the evolving landscape.

Advanced Use Cases

Beyond simply switching between models, this feature could pave the way for more advanced use cases. Imagine scenarios where you could specify model configurations or even chain commands together, using different models for different stages of a process. The possibilities are vast, and we're eager to see how the community will leverage this flexibility.

Community Feedback and Collaboration

As with any feature, community feedback is invaluable. We encourage you to share your thoughts, suggestions, and use cases. Your input helps us refine and improve Claude Code, ensuring it meets your needs and exceeds your expectations. Together, we can build a powerful and versatile tool that empowers developers and creators alike.

In conclusion, the addition of the --model flag is a significant step forward for Claude Code. It enhances flexibility, streamlines workflows, and future-proofs the platform for new advancements. We believe this feature will be a game-changer, and we can't wait to see how you use it to unleash your creativity and productivity. Let us know what you think, and let’s build the future of AI-powered development together!

Examples

/sc:build --model opus

/sc:analyze --model sonnet