Anthropic's intent.md File Helps Teams Align on Goals Before AI Writes Code

Anthropic's AI-Native SDLC playbook introduces intent.md, a workflow artifact designed to capture the problem and desired outcome of a change before any technical solution is drafted. The file is not a special Claude Code command or auto-discovered configuration, but a human-authored document reviewed by a product owner prior to the design and build stages. It records what needs to change and why, deliberately leaving open questions exposed so the AI agent does not silently make unresolved decisions. A practical example involves a 'Select All' checkbox feature, where the intent file clarifies whether selection should cover the visible page or all filter-matching orders across pages. This approach differs from CLAUDE.md, which provides ongoing project guidance, and spec.md, which defines requirements after intent is agreed upon.