Cline Memory Bank

that important context is preserved in your Memory Bank files before the context window is cleared, allowing you to continue seamlessly in a fresh conversation.

https://docs.cline.bot/improving-your-prompting-skills/cline-memory-bank

How often should I update the memory bank?

Update the Memory Bank after significant milestones or changes in direction. For active development, updates every few sessions can be helpful. Use the «update memory bank» command when you want to ensure all context is preserved. However, you will notice Cline automatically updating the Memory Bank as well.

Does this work with other AI tools beyond Cline?

Yes! The Memory Bank concept is a documentation methodology that can work with any AI assistant that can read documentation files. The specific commands might differ, but the structured approach to maintaining context works across tools.

How does the memory bank relate to context window limitations?

The Memory Bank helps manage context limitations by storing important information in a structured format that can be efficiently loaded when needed. This prevents context bloat while ensuring critical information is available.

Can the memory bank concept be used for non-coding projects?

Absolutely! The Memory Bank approach works for any project that benefits from structured documentation – from writing books to planning events. The file structure might vary, but the concept remains powerful.

Is this different from using README files?

While similar in concept, the Memory Bank provides a more structured and comprehensive approach specifically designed to maintain context across AI sessions. It goes beyond what a single README typically covers.

Best Practices

Getting Started

• Start with a basic project brief and let the structure evolve
• Let Cline help create the initial structure
• Review and adjust files as needed to match your workflow

Ongoing Work

• Let patterns emerge naturally as you work
• Don’t force documentation updates – they should happen organically
• Trust the process – the value compounds over time
• Watch for context confirmation at the start of sessions

Documentation Flow

• projectbrief.md is your foundation
• activeContext.md changes most frequently
• progress.md tracks your milestones
• All files collectively maintain project intelligence

Detailed Setup Instructions

For Custom Instructions (Global)

1. Open VSCode
2. Click the Cline extension settings ⚙️
3. Find «Custom Instructions»
4. Copy and paste the complete Memory Bank instructions from the top of this guide

For .clinerules (Project-Specific)

1. Create a .clinerules file in your project root
2. Copy and paste the Memory Bank instructions from the top of this guide
3. Save the file
4. Cline will automatically apply these rules when working in this project

Remember

The Memory Bank is Cline’s only link to previous work. Its effectiveness depends entirely on maintaining clear, accurate documentation and confirming context preservation in every interaction.

For more information, reference our blog on Cline Memory Bank

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Contributing to Cline Memory Bank

This guide is maintained by the Cline and the Cline Discord Community:

• nickbaumann98
• Krylo
• snipermunyshotz

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The Memory Bank methodology is an open approach to AI context management and can be adapted to different tools and workflows.