How to use Claude Code /btw to cut token costs

TL;DR

The /btw feature keeps a side panel open so you can ask questions related to the ongoing context without interrupting the main thread, reducing token waste. It lets you load new context or run tasks in parallel within a single session, improving efficiency and keeping the main workflow uninterrupted. You can enable it via the terminal version and adjust its settings for auto updates.

Transcript

Anthropic just dropped one of the most useful features in Claude Code ever. It's called /btw. It saves you twice the tokens and allows you to do things in half the time. And I don't really think a lot of people know about it. Now, previously, if I was having a conversation with Claude Code, let's say I ask it to scrape a,000 paperclick agency owner... Read More

Key Insights

• /btw creates a side window that runs parallel inquiries without interrupting the main thread.
• The feature reduces token costs by avoiding multiple parallel Claude Code sessions.
• You must type /btw followed by a space and your request to open the side panel.
• The side panel remains open while the main task continues, allowing continuous context processing.
• Read the on-screen guidance in the /btw panel and use space, enter, or escape to manage it.
• Auto update should be on in VS Code for Claude Code to receive /btw improvements.
• If issues exist, you can reinstall Claude Code to obtain the latest version.
• The feature is described as keeping everything in a unified context window on one thread.

Questions & Answers

Q: How does /btw differ from opening new Claude Code sessions?

/btw differs by creating a side window within the same session, so you do not need to open a separate Claude Code thread to ask follow-up questions. This reduces token waste and keeps the original task context intact. It also allows you to ask questions about the current skill or data while continuing work.

Q: What triggers the /btw side panel to appear?

To trigger the /btw side panel you type /btw and then space plus your request in the same message. This opens a yellow labeled /btw panel where you can read guidance, type further questions, and manage the conversation without interrupting the main thread.

Q: What are typical use cases for /btw in Claude Code?

Typical use cases include asking follow-up questions about the current data load, requesting different output formats like CSV, debugging the current task, or asking for clarifications while the main task runs. This enables dynamic interaction and reduces the need to reload assets or restart workflows.

Q: What setup steps are needed to use /btw?

You need the terminal version of Claude Code, enable autoupdate in VS Code, and ensure the Claude Code extension is up to date. Then you type /btw followed by your request to open the side panel. If issues arise, install a specific version or reinstall the extension to ensure the latest features are available.

Q: Can /btw improve the quality of responses?

Yes, because the main conversation remains uninterrupted while you query or steer outputs in the side panel. This reduces interruptions and context switching, leading to more coherent responses since the model has continuous access to the full chain of context without losing track of prior work.

Q: Is there any risk of higher token costs when using /btw?

The design of /btw aims to reduce token costs by avoiding full context reloads and parallel sessions. Since you are interacting within a single thread and not duplicating context across multiple sessions, token usage tends to be lower while maintaining or improving task throughput.

Q: What should you do if /btw shows errors or doesn’t work?

First, verify that autoupdate is enabled and you are using the terminal version of Claude Code. If the problem persists, install a specific version or reinstall the Claude Code extension. Restarting the editor and reloading the workspace can also help ensure the side panel initializes correctly.

Q: How do you dismiss or navigate the /btw panel?

From the /btw panel you can press space to continue, enter to submit, or escape to dismiss. After dismissing, you return to the main thread and can continue the primary task or open the panel again later as needed without losing the current work.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Claude Code now ships with a side panel feature called /btw that reduces token waste while keeping context alive in a single thread

• Using /btw lets you ask follow-ups or request formats like CSV without restarting the main task, which streamlines complex data work

• Enabling /btw requires the terminal version of Claude Code and ensuring autoupdate settings are enabled for a smoother upgrade