Anthropic has enriched its Claude platform by introducing coding lesson modes in Claude Code and a broader Learning style for Claude.ai, aimed at guiding users through concepts rather than delivering instant answers. The updated features include two “output-style” presets—Explanatory and Learning—that cater to both developers and learners.
- Explanatory mode lets Claude explain its architectural choices and trade-offs while generating code.
- Learning mode adopts a mentor-like approach: Claude writes part of the code and prompts the user to fill in the rest, offering feedback thereafter.
The broader Learning mode—previously exclusive to Claude for Education—is now available to all users within Claude.ai. This allows anyone to choose a Socratic, guided style to tackle concepts, rather than simply consuming answers.
Key Features of the New Claude Learning Modes
- Multiple learning styles:
- Explanatory: Claude walks through its reasoning step-by-step.
- Learning: Claude pauses coding tasks to let users take the lead, evaluating their solutions.
- Sophisticated guidance for all users: The Learning style is now available across Claude.ai—not just in educational editions—empowering users to learn through interactive discovery.
- Developer customization: Users can switch modes in Claude Code using the
/output-stylescommand, toggling between Default, Explanatory, or Learning styles for tailored workflows.
Developer & Community Reaction
On Reddit, early users reacted positively:
“Honestly, that’s really damn cool! I teach web development… perhaps now we can more fluidly include AI in the classroom…”
— r/ClaudeAI
The flexibility to mix styles and customize Claude’s teaching approach was highlighted as a powerful feature:
“You can create your own… seems you should be able to combine the two and tailor it even further… really neat feature.”
— r/ClaudeAI
Why It Matters
- Interactive learning for all: These new modes turn Claude into a tutor that supports active learning, whether you’re coding or studying complex topics.
- Bridging the expert gap: By explaining thought processes and promoting learning through doing, Claude helps users understand “why,” not just “how.”
- Educational democratization: Making Learning mode available to everyone aligns with Anthropic’s vision of promoting deeper conceptual understanding at scale.
