Custom Agent Development FAQs

Question 1

Why should I use a Task sub-agent instead of a remote API call?

Accepted Answer

Task sub-agents have full access to local tools like Read, Grep, and Write, allowing them to reason across your entire filesystem iteratively, whereas remote API calls are limited to the context passed in a single prompt.

Question 2

How do I stop Claude from asking for Bash approval every time?

Accepted Answer

You can use the tool allowlist pattern in your .claude/settings.json file to pre-approve safe commands or restrict agent tools to only Read/Write/Edit when Bash execution isn't strictly required.

Question 3

What is the best way to trigger a custom agent automatically?

Accepted Answer

Implement 'Strong Trigger Patterns' in the agent's YAML description using specific phrases like 'MUST BE USED when' and 'Use PROACTIVELY for' followed by relevant task keywords.

Question 4

What is declarative prompt design for agents?

Accepted Answer

Declarative design focuses on describing the desired outcome and success criteria (the 'what') rather than listing specific tool commands (the 'how'), which allows the model to use its reasoning capabilities more effectively.

Question 5

How can I fix memory limit crashes during complex Claude Code tasks?

Accepted Answer

Increase the Node.js heap size by adding export NODE_OPTIONS="--max-old-space-size=16384" to your .bashrc or .zshrc file to provide Claude with up to 16GB of memory.

Custom Agent Development

Key Features

Use Cases

Custom Agent Development

Key Features

Use Cases