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The new_task Tool & Context Management Strategies

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Overview

Cline includes a powerful internal tool, new_task, designed to help manage workflow continuity and context preservation, especially during complex or long-running tasks. This tool, combined with Cline’s awareness of its own context window usage and the flexibility of .clinerules, enables sophisticated strategies for breaking down work and ensuring seamless transitions between task sessions. Understanding the core capabilities and how they interact with custom rules is key to leveraging this feature effectively.

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Core Capabilities

Two fundamental capabilities enable advanced context management:
  1. The new_task Tool:
    • Function: Allows Cline, upon user approval, to end the current task session and immediately start a new one.
    • Context Preloading: Crucially, Cline can preload this new task session with specific context provided within the tool’s <context> block. This context can be anything Cline or a .clinerules file defines – summaries, code snippets, next steps, project state, etc.
  2. Context Window Awareness:
    • Tracking: Cline internally tracks the percentage of its available context window currently being used during a task.
    • Visibility: This information is visible in the environment_details provided to Cline in its prompt.

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Using the /newtask Slash Command

As a quick alternative to Cline suggesting the newtask tool or defining complex rules, you can directly initiate the process using a Slash Command.
  • How: Simply type /newtask in the chat input field.
  • Action: Cline will propose creating a new task, typically suggesting context based on the current session (similar to its default behavior when using the tool). You will still get the ask_followup_question prompt to confirm and potentially modify the context before the new task is created.
  • Benefit: Provides a fast, user-initiated way to leverage the new_task functionality for branching explorations or managing long sessions without waiting for Cline to suggest it.
For more details on using the /newtask slash command, see the New Task Command documentation.

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Default Behavior (Without .clinerules)

By default, without specific .clinerules dictating its behavior:
  • Tool Availability: The new_task tool exists, and Cline can choose to use it.
  • Context Awareness: Cline is aware of its context usage percentage.
  • No Automatic Trigger: Cline will not automatically initiate a task handoff solely based on context usage reaching a specific percentage (like 50%). The decision to suggest using new_task comes from the AI model’s reasoning based on the overall task progress and prompt instructions.
  • Basic Context Preloading: If new_task is used without specific rules defining the <context> block structure, Cline will attempt to preload relevant information based on its current understanding (e.g., a basic summary of progress and next steps), but this may be less comprehensive than a rule-driven approach.

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The Power of .clinerules: Enabling Custom Workflows

While the core capabilities exist by default, the true power, automation, and customization emerge when you combine new_task and context awareness with custom workflows defined in .clinerules. This allows you to precisely control when and how Cline manages context and task continuity. Key benefits of using .clinerules with new_task:
  • Automated Context Management: Define rules to automatically trigger handoffs at specific context percentages (e.g., >50%, >70%) or token counts, ensuring optimal performance and preventing context loss.
  • Model-Specific Optimization: Tailor handoff triggers based on known thresholds for different LLMs (e.g., trigger earlier for models known to degrade past a certain token count).
  • Intelligent Breakpoints: Instruct Cline via rules to find logical stopping points (e.g., after completing a function or test) after a context threshold is passed, ensuring cleaner handoffs.
  • Structured Task Decomposition: Use Plan Mode to define subtasks, then use .clinerules to have Cline automatically create a new task via new_task upon completing each subtask, preloading the context for the next subtask.
  • Custom Context Packaging: Mandate the exact structure and content of the <context> block in .clinerules for highly detailed and consistent handoffs (see example below).
  • Improved Memory Persistence: Use new_task context blocks as a primary, integrated way to persist information across sessions, potentially replacing or supplementing file-based memory systems.
  • Workflow Automation: Define rules for specific scenarios, like always preloading certain setup instructions or project boilerplate when starting tasks of a particular type.

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Example Rule-Driven Workflow: Task Handoff Process

A common workflow, driven by specific .clinerules like the example below, involves these steps:
  1. Trigger Identification (Rule-Based): Cline monitors for handoff points defined in the rules (e.g., context usage > 50%, task completion).
  2. User Confirmation: Cline uses ask_followup_question to propose creating a new task, often showing the intended context defined by the rules. 
    <ask_followup_question>
<question>I've completed [specific accomplishment] and context usage is high (XX%). Would you like me to create a new task to continue with [remaining work], preloading the following context?</question>
<options>["Yes, create new task", "Modify context first", "No, continue this session"]</options>
</ask_followup_question>
  3. User Control: You can approve, deny, or ask Cline to modify the context before the new task is created.
  4. Context Packaging (new_task Tool): If approved, Cline uses new_task, packaging the context according to the structure mandated by the .clinerules.
  5. New Task Creation: The current task ends, and a new session begins immediately, preloaded with the specified context.

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The Handoff Context Block (Rule-Defined Structure)

The effectiveness of rule-driven handoffs depends heavily on how .clinerules define the <context> block. A comprehensive structure often includes:
  • ## Completed Work: Detailed list of accomplishments, files modified/created, key decisions.
  • ## Current State: Project status, running processes, key file states.
  • ## Next Steps: Clear, prioritized list of remaining tasks, implementation details, known challenges.
  • ## Reference Information: Links, code snippets, patterns, user preferences.
  • Actionable Start: A clear instruction for the immediate next action.

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Potential Use Cases & Workflows

The flexibility of new_task combined with .clinerules opens up many possibilities:
  • Proactive Context Window Management: Automatically trigger handoffs at specific percentages (e.g., 50%, 70%) or token counts to maintain optimal performance.
  • Intelligent Breakpoints: Instruct Cline to find logical stopping points (e.g., after completing a function or test) after a context threshold is passed, ensuring cleaner handoffs.
  • Structured Task Decomposition: Use Plan Mode to define subtasks, then use .clinerules to have Cline automatically create a new task via new_task upon completing each subtask.
  • Automated Session Summaries: Configure the <context> block to always include a summary of the previous session’s key discussion points.
  • Preloading Boilerplate/Setup: Start new tasks related to specific projects preloaded with standard setup instructions or file templates.
  • “Memory Bank” Alternative: Use new_task context blocks as the primary way to persist information across sessions, potentially replacing file-based memory systems.
Experimenting with .clinerules is encouraged to discover workflows that best suit your needs!

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Example .clinerules: Task Handoff Strategy Guide

Below is an example .clinerules file focused specifically on using new_task for context window management. Remember, this is just one specific strategy; the core new_task tool can be used differently with other custom rules. 
# You MUST use the `new_task` tool: Task Handoff Strategy Guide

**⚠️ CRITICAL INSTRUCTIONS - YOU MUST FOLLOW THESE GUIDELINES ⚠️**

This guide provides **MANDATORY** instructions for effectively breaking down complex tasks and implementing a smooth handoff process between tasks. You **MUST** follow these guidelines to ensure continuity, context preservation, and efficient task completion.

## ⚠️ CONTEXT WINDOW MONITORING - MANDATORY ACTION REQUIRED ⚠️

You **MUST** monitor the context window usage displayed in the environment details. When usage exceeds 50% of the available context window, you **MUST** initiate a task handoff using the `new_task` tool.

Example of context window usage over 50% with a 200K context window:

\`\`\`text

# Context Window Usage

105,000 / 200,000 tokens (53%)
Model: anthropic/claude-sonnet-4 (200K context window)
\`\`\`

**IMPORTANT**: When you see context window usage at or above 50%, you MUST:

1. Complete your current logical step
2. Use the `ask_followup_question` tool to offer creating a new task
3. If approved, use the `new_task` tool with comprehensive handoff instructions

## Task Breakdown in Plan Mode - REQUIRED PROCESS

Plan Mode is specifically designed for analyzing complex tasks and breaking them into manageable subtasks. When in Plan Mode, you **MUST**:

### 1. Initial Task Analysis - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** begin by thoroughly understanding the full scope of the user's request
-   **MUST** identify all major components and dependencies of the task
-   **MUST** consider potential challenges, edge cases, and prerequisites

### 2. Strategic Task Decomposition - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** break the overall task into logical, discrete subtasks
-   **MUST** prioritize subtasks based on dependencies (what must be completed first)
-   **MUST** aim for subtasks that can be completed within a single session (15-30 minutes of work)
-   **MUST** consider natural breaking points where context switching makes sense

### 3. Creating a Task Roadmap - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** present a clear, numbered list of subtasks to the user
-   **MUST** explain dependencies between subtasks
-   **MUST** provide time estimates for each subtask when possible
-   **MUST** use Mermaid diagrams to visualize task flow and dependencies when helpful

\`\`\`mermaid
graph TD
A[Main Task] --> B[Subtask 1: Setup]
A --> C[Subtask 2: Core Implementation]
A --> D[Subtask 3: Testing]
A --> E[Subtask 4: Documentation]
B --> C
C --> D
\`\`\`

### 4. Getting User Approval - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** ask for user feedback on the proposed task breakdown
-   **MUST** adjust the plan based on user priorities or additional requirements
-   **MUST** confirm which subtask to begin with
-   **MUST** request the user to toggle to Act Mode when ready to implement

## Task Implementation and Handoff Process - MANDATORY PROCEDURES

When implementing tasks in Act Mode, you **MUST** follow these guidelines for effective task handoff:

### 1. Focused Implementation - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** focus on completing the current subtask fully
-   **MUST** document progress clearly through comments and commit messages
-   **MUST** create checkpoints at logical completion points

### 2. Recognizing Completion Points - CRITICAL

You **MUST** identify natural handoff points when:

-   The current subtask is fully completed
-   You've reached a logical stopping point in a larger subtask
-   The implementation is taking longer than expected and can be continued later
-   The task scope has expanded beyond the original plan
-   **CRITICAL**: The context window usage exceeds 50% (e.g., 100,000+ tokens for a 200K context window)

### 3. Initiating the Handoff Process - MANDATORY ACTION

When you've reached a completion point, you **MUST**:

1. Summarize what has been accomplished so far
2. Clearly state what remains to be done
3. **MANDATORY**: Use the `ask_followup_question` tool to offer creating a new task:

\`\`\`xml
<ask_followup_question>
<question>I've completed [specific accomplishment]. Would you like me to create a new task to continue with [remaining work]?</question>
<options>["Yes, create a new task", "No, continue in this session", "Let me think about it"]</options>
</ask_followup_question>
\`\`\`

### 4. Creating a New Task with Context - REQUIRED ACTION

If the user agrees to create a new task, you **MUST** use the `new_task` tool with comprehensive handoff instructions:

\`\`\`xml
<new_task>
<context>

# Task Continuation: [Brief Task Title]

## Completed Work

-   [Detailed list of completed items]
-   [Include specific files modified/created]
-   [Note any important decisions made]

## Current State

-   [Description of the current state of the project]
-   [Any running processes or environment setup]
-   [Key files and their current state]

## Next Steps

-   [Detailed list of remaining tasks]
-   [Specific implementation details to address]
-   [Any known challenges to be aware of]

## Reference Information

-   [Links to relevant documentation]
-   [Important code snippets or patterns to follow]
-   [Any user preferences noted during the current session]

Please continue the implementation by [specific next action].
</context>
</new_task>
\`\`\`

### 5. Detailed Context Transfer - MANDATORY COMPONENTS

When creating a new task, you **MUST** always include:

#### Project Context - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** include the overall goal and purpose of the project
-   **MUST** include key architectural decisions and patterns
-   **MUST** include technology stack and dependencies

#### Implementation Details - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** list files created or modified in the current session
-   **MUST** describe specific functions, classes, or components implemented
-   **MUST** explain design patterns being followed
-   **MUST** outline testing approach

#### Progress Tracking - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** provide checklist of completed items
-   **MUST** provide checklist of remaining items
-   **MUST** note any blockers or challenges encountered

#### User Preferences - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** note coding style preferences mentioned by the user
-   **MUST** document specific approaches requested by the user
-   **MUST** highlight priority areas identified by the user

## Best Practices for Effective Handoffs - MANDATORY GUIDELINES

### 1. Maintain Continuity - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** use consistent terminology between tasks
-   **MUST** reference previous decisions and their rationale
-   **MUST** maintain the same architectural approach unless explicitly changing direction

### 2. Preserve Context - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** include relevant code snippets in the handoff
-   **MUST** summarize key discussions from the previous session
-   **MUST** reference specific files and line numbers when applicable

### 3. Set Clear Next Actions - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** begin the handoff with a clear, actionable next step
-   **MUST** prioritize remaining tasks
-   **MUST** highlight any decisions that need to be made

### 4. Document Assumptions - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** clearly state any assumptions made during implementation
-   **MUST** note areas where user input might be needed
-   **MUST** identify potential alternative approaches

### 5. Optimize for Resumability - REQUIRED

-   **MUST** structure the handoff so the next session can begin working immediately
-   **MUST** include setup instructions if environment configuration is needed
-   **MUST** provide a quick summary at the top for rapid context restoration

## Example Task Handoff

### Example #1 of an effective task handoff:

\`\`\`xml
<new_task>
<context>

# Task Continuation: Implement User Authentication System

## Completed Work

-   Created basic Express.js server structure
-   Implemented MongoDB connection and user schema
-   Completed user registration endpoint with password hashing
-   Added input validation using Joi
-   Created initial test suite for registration endpoint

## Current State

-   Server runs successfully on port 3000
-   MongoDB connection is established
-   Registration endpoint (/api/users/register) is fully functional
-   Test suite passes for all registration scenarios

## Next Steps

1. Implement login endpoint (/api/users/login)
    - Use bcrypt to compare passwords
    - Generate JWT token upon successful login
    - Add proper error handling for invalid credentials
2. Create authentication middleware
    - Verify JWT tokens
    - Extract user information
    - Handle expired tokens
3. Add protected routes that require authentication
4. Implement password reset functionality

## Reference Information

-   JWT secret should be stored in .env file
-   Follow the existing error handling pattern in routes/users.js
-   User schema is defined in models/User.js
-   Test patterns are established in tests/auth.test.js

Please continue by implementing the login endpoint following the same patterns established in the registration endpoint.
</context>
</new_task>
\`\`\`

### Example #2 of an ineffective task handoff:

_(Note: The example provided in the original rules showing "YOLO MODE Implementation" seems less like a direct handoff context block and more like a general status update with future considerations. A true ineffective handoff might lack detail in 'Current State' or 'Next Steps')._

## When to Use Task Handoffs - MANDATORY TRIGGERS

You **MUST** initiate task handoffs in these scenarios:

1. **CRITICAL**: When context window usage exceeds 50% (e.g., 100,000+ tokens for a 200K context window)
2. **Long-running projects** that exceed a single session
3. **Complex implementations** with multiple distinct phases
4. **When context window limitations** are approaching
5. **When switching focus areas** within a larger project
6. **When different expertise** might be beneficial for different parts of the task

**⚠️ FINAL REMINDER - CRITICAL INSTRUCTION ⚠️**

You **MUST** monitor the context window usage in the environment details section. When it exceeds 50% (e.g., "105,000 / 200,000 tokens (53%)"), you **MUST** proactively initiate the task handoff process using the `ask_followup_question` tool followed by the `new_task` tool. You MUST use the `new_task` tool.

By strictly following these guidelines, you'll ensure smooth transitions between tasks, maintain project momentum, and provide the best possible experience for users working on complex, multi-session projects.

```markdown
## User Interaction & Workflow Considerations

-   **Linear Flow:** Currently, using `new_task` creates a linear sequence. The old task ends, and the new one begins. The old task history remains accessible for backtracking.
-   **User Approval:** You always have control, approving the handoff and having the chance to modify the context Cline proposes to carry forward.
-   **Flexibility:** The core `new_task` tool is a flexible building block. Experiment with `.clinerules` to create workflows that best suit your needs, whether for strict context management, task decomposition, or other creative uses.
```