Getting Started with CodeMantis

Prerequisites

Before installing CodeMantis, make sure you have:

• macOS 12 (Monterey) or later — CodeMantis is a native macOS application.
• Claude Code CLI installed — see Installing Claude Code if you have not set this up yet.
• An active Claude Pro or Max subscription — Claude Code requires a paid Anthropic plan ($20/mo Pro or $100-200/mo Max).

Download and Install

1. Visit the CodeMantis GitHub Releases page.
2. Download the latest .dmg file for your Mac (Apple Silicon or Intel).
3. Open the .dmg and drag CodeMantis into your Applications folder.
4. Launch CodeMantis from Applications. On first launch, macOS may ask you to confirm you want to open the app — click Open.

Opening a Project

When CodeMantis launches, you can start working in two ways:

• Open an existing folder — Click Open Project and select any folder on your Mac. CodeMantis will detect its structure and initialize a Claude Code session.
• Create from a template — Choose from built-in project templates (Next.js, Tauri, Python, and more) to scaffold a new project with sensible defaults.

Sending Your First Message

Once a project is open, the chat panel is front and center. Type a message describing what you want to build or change — for example:

Add a login page with email and password fields

Claude Code will analyze your project, propose changes, and ask for approval before modifying any files.

Session Modes at a Glance

CodeMantis offers three modes that control how much autonomy Claude Code has:

• Normal — You approve each action before it runs. Best for learning and sensitive work.
• Auto-Accept — Claude works without pausing for approval. Best for fast iteration.
• Plan — Reasoning only, no code changes. Best for architecture discussions.

You can switch modes at any time with Command + . or by using the mode selector in the chat panel. Learn more in Session Modes Explained.

Next Steps

• Understanding the Three-Panel Layout — Learn how the workspace is organized.
• Session Modes Explained — Decide how much control to give Claude.
• Installing Claude Code — Troubleshoot CLI setup issues.
• Setting Up AI API Keys — Configure API keys for changelogs, assistants, and SpecWriter.