Review a document with Claude
Claude · Next lesson
Read a long file in one sitting
Section titled “Read a long file in one sitting”Claude can summarize a PDF or pasted text and list what you should double-check. If a preview panel opens beside the chat, that is an artifact: a draft you can read there. You still compare it with the original file.
What you need
Section titled “What you need”- The first Claude lesson completed, or a Claude chat already open.
- One document you are allowed to share, such as a public policy PDF, a class reading or your own draft.
- Remove signatures, ID numbers, salaries and customer data first. See what to leave out of a chat and how to upload files.
Try this
Section titled “Try this”- Open a new Claude chat.
- Upload the file, or paste a short section if upload is not available on your device.
- Paste the prompt below.
- Open every “to confirm” item in the original document before you act on it.
Summarize this document in simple English.Give me:1. Five sentences on what it is about.2. A list of action items that are clearly written in the file.3. A "To confirm" list for dates, amounts, penalties or promises I should check in the original.
Use only this document. If something is not stated, say it is not in the file. Do not invent fees or deadlines.Try it without a real contract
Section titled “Try it without a real contract”Use a one-page school memo or event notice you already have. A useful result names the event, the date as written, and flags anything unclear. It should not add a penalty that the memo never mentioned.
If a side panel opens
Section titled “If a side panel opens”Read the summary there, then still scroll the original PDF. The panel is a draft, not a signed copy.
Before you rely on it
Section titled “Before you rely on it”- Check every date, amount and name against the file.
- Do not use this as legal, medical or financial advice.
- Never upload contracts, payslips or IDs you are not allowed to share.
Get started with Claude · Upload files
Next: Start with Claude · Everyday AI