4. Claude Desktop App: Chat, Cowork, Code

Course: Claude 101 Estimated time: 10 minutes

Learning objectives

By the end of this lesson, you will be able to:

• Navigate the Claude desktop app interface
• Understand the three core modes: Chat, Cowork, and Code
• Identify which mode is best for different types of tasks

Navigating the Claude desktop app (Chat, Cowork, Code)

The Claude desktop app gives you three distinct working environments inside a single application.

Chat

Chat is the conversational mode — the interface most people start with. You talk to Claude, it responds. Great for:

• Drafting and editing text
• Answering questions and research
• Brainstorming and thinking through problems
• Getting explanations of complex topics

Cowork

Cowork enables Claude to work directly with files, folders, and applications on your machine. Rather than a conversation format, Cowork functions as a working session where you describe tasks, Claude executes and plans, and you maintain guidance throughout.

Great for:

• Working on actual files and documents saved on your computer
• Multi-step tasks involving multiple apps (read a file, write a summary, save it)
• Running end-to-end tasks that involve reading, editing, and producing outputs
• Scheduled or recurring tasks you want Claude to handle

Code

Code is Claude Code — the agentic coding environment. Claude reads your codebase, edits files, runs commands, and integrates with your developer tools.

Great for:

• Software development and debugging
• Automating coding tasks and refactoring
• Working in terminal or IDE-connected workflows

Comparing the three modes

Mode	Best for	Interactivity
Chat	Conversation, drafting, research	High — turn-by-turn
Cowork	File tasks, multi-step workflows	Medium — task-based
Code	Software development	High — agentic loop

Lesson reflection

Before moving on, consider:

• Which mode are you most likely to use first, based on your day-to-day work?
• Are there tasks you currently do manually that Cowork might be able to handle?
• If you're a developer, how might Code change your workflow?