Claude Code Hooks Let Developers Run Custom Scripts at Key Workflow Moments

Claude Code supports a feature called hooks that allows developers to execute custom scripts at specific points in the AI coding assistant's workflow, such as before or after a tool runs. Unlike permission rules, which only gate whether an action is allowed, hooks can actively perform tasks like formatting files, logging session activity, or blocking a git push if no matching test file was updated. Two primary hook types exist: PreToolUse, which fires before a tool executes and can still block it, and PostToolUse, which fires after execution and can trigger follow-up actions. Hooks are configured inside the same .claude/settings.json file used for permissions, with each hook pointing to a shell script or command to run. Notably, these hooks only apply within Claude Code sessions and do not replace native git hooks or govern manual actions taken outside the tool.