TASK.md: how it works
TASK.md is a Markdown checklist for the current milestone that agents read at the start of a session and update at the end. It records what is done, in progress and next, the commands that must pass before a task counts as done, and a short log of each session. It is a convention: your CLAUDE.md or AGENTS.md should tell the agent to read and update it.
Where the file goes
./TASK.mdRepo rootRead at session start and updated at the end, when your rules file says so.
What goes in it
## Milestone 2: Export - [x] ZIP export from the toolbar - [/] Include hidden files in the export - [ ] Export progress indicator ## Verification npm run lint && npm test && npm run build
## Session log | Date | Agent | Change | Result | | :--- | :--- | :--- | :--- | | 2026-10-12 | Claude Code | Hidden files in ZIP | Checks passed |
Tips
- Mark tasks
[x]done,[/]in progress and[ ]pending. - List the exact commands a task must pass before it is marked done.
- Ask agents to add a session log row when they finish.
- Keep only the current milestone in detail; archive finished ones.
Not sure TASK.md is the file you need? Each AI coding tool reads its own file from its own place.
Which file do I need?Frequently asked questions
How do agents use TASK.md?
They read it at session start to pick up the active task, run the verification commands after making changes, and log what they did before finishing.
Do agents update TASK.md automatically?
Only if your rules tell them to. Add 'Read TASK.md first and update it when you finish' to your CLAUDE.md or AGENTS.md.