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Focus Chain is automatic todo list management with real-time progress tracking. It helps Cline work on longer tasks by maintaining a visible checklist that persists across context window resets.
Focus Chain todo list management with real-time progress tracking

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When to Use It

Focus Chain works best for:
  • Multi-step implementations (building a feature end-to-end)
  • Tasks that might span multiple context windows
  • Work where you want visibility into Cline’s plan
For quick, single-step requests, Focus Chain adds overhead without much benefit.
Focus Chain pairs well with Deep Planning. Use /deep-plan to create a detailed implementation plan, then let Focus Chain track progress as you execute it.

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Enabling Focus Chain

  1. Click the gear icon in the Cline sidebar
  2. Navigate to “Features”
  3. Check “Enable Focus Chain”
  4. Optionally adjust “Remind Cline Interval” (default: 6 messages)
SettingDefaultDescription
Enable Focus ChainDisabledEnables enhanced task progress tracking
Remind Cline Interval6How often Cline updates the todo list (1-100 messages)

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How It Works

When you start a task with Focus Chain enabled, Cline:
  1. Analyzes your request and creates a comprehensive todo list
  2. Stores it as an editable markdown file
  3. Updates progress in real-time as work progresses
  4. Shows a progress indicator in the task header (e.g., “3/8”)
The todo list uses standard markdown checklist syntax: 
- [x] Set up project structure
- [x] Install authentication dependencies
- [ ] Create user registration component
- [ ] Implement login functionality  ← Currently working
- [ ] Add password validation
- [ ] Write authentication tests

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Editing Todo Lists

Need to adjust the plan? Click the edit button in the expanded todo view. A markdown file opens in your editor where you can add, remove, or reorder items. Save the file and Cline automatically detects your updates. For complex projects, start with Plan Mode to discuss the approach before committing to a todo list.