Claude Cowork is built for multi-step knowledge work rather than simple question-and-answer chats. It can plan a task, work through files and web research, and return a finished result while you review the work.
How do you use Claude Cowork? Open Claude on a supported surface, select Cowork in the message box, describe the outcome you want, and review Claude's approach before it runs. Start with a clear goal, give only the files and access it needs, and check the result before using it.
What Claude Cowork is designed to do
Cowork uses the same agentic architecture that powers Claude Code, but it targets knowledge work without requiring a terminal. It can handle research, file organization, document creation and other tasks that need several steps instead of one reply.
Who can use Claude Cowork
Anthropic currently lists Cowork for paid Pro, Max, Team and Enterprise plans. Availability differs by surface and organization settings.
How to start a Cowork task
- Open Claude on the surface where Cowork is available.
- Select Cowork in the message box.
- Describe the finished outcome.
- Review the plan and permissions, then let the task run.
Give Cowork the right context
A good task states the goal, source material, constraints, output format and checks. For the research side, see our practical Claude Research guide.
When to use cloud and local access
Cowork sessions can run in Anthropic's cloud, while tasks that need local files or computer use depend on the Desktop app and granted access.
A simple prompt structure that works
Use five parts: goal, inputs, constraints, deliverable and verification. Add a final check such as “show me what changed and list anything you could not verify.”
What is changing for browser use
Anthropic is rolling out a built-in browser in Claude Desktop. It can open sites, read pages, click, type and fill forms. Signed-in sites and write actions need extra care.
How to use Cowork safely
Keep permissions narrow, connect only the folders required for the task, and avoid giving an agent access to secrets it does not need. Review write actions and important outputs before relying on them.
How Cowork fits with Claude Research
Cowork is an execution layer for larger tasks, while Claude Research focuses on structured research. Our Claude detailed guide covers wider Claude workflows. For provenance questions, see the new Claude text watermarking guide.
Related ToolBoxKart guides
For agent architecture, read the AI Agent Architect guide. For permissions, use How to Audit AI Agent Permissions. For human review, see Human Approval Gates for AI Agent Workflows.
Frequently asked questions
Is Claude Cowork available on free plans?
Anthropic currently lists Cowork for paid Pro, Max, Team and Enterprise plans.
Can Cowork keep working when I close my laptop?
Cloud Cowork sessions can continue on Anthropic's servers after you close your laptop.
Can Claude Cowork use a browser?
Yes. Anthropic documents browser use in Cowork, including a built-in browser in Claude Desktop that is rolling out gradually.
Sources
- Anthropic Help — Get started with Claude Cowork
- Anthropic Help — Use Claude Cowork on web, desktop, and mobile
- Anthropic Help — Use Claude Cowork safely