Claude Code is a terminal-based AI tool that reads project files, edits code directly, and runs commands from plain English instructions. It requires a paid Anthropic account to use, and the installation method changed significantly at the start of 2026. The tool is not free; every session uses API credits from an Anthropic account, with Anthropic charging per token. For a beginner session of 30–60 minutes with a small project, users should expect to spend roughly $0.50–$2.00. Before starting, users should go to console.anthropic.com and set a billing limit, with a recommended spending cap of $10 or $20 for the first week. Users also need to generate an API key from that same console. Claude Code is currently available to Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise subscribers on Claude.ai, and separately to API users who pay per token. Users who already pay for Claude Pro ($20/month) get some included Fable 5 and lower-tier usage through the subscription, while API usage through Claude Code bills separately from that subscription.