How do I upload files to Claude?
Steps to upload a file
Open a chat on claude.ai. Look for the attachment icon (often a paperclip or plus sign) near the message box. Click it to open your file browser.
Select the file you want to upload. Supported formats include PDF, TXT, DOCX, CSV, XLSX, and image files like PNG or JPG. The file size limit is typically around 10-20 MB, but this can vary.
Once uploaded, you'll see a preview or filename in the chat. You can then type a prompt asking Claude to summarize, analyze, or answer questions about the file. Claude will process the content and respond.
- Supported: PDF, DOCX, TXT, CSV, XLSX, PPTX, images.
- Not supported: audio, video, executables, zip files.
- File size limit: usually 10-20 MB per file.
- You can upload multiple files in one chat.
- Claude can extract text from images (OCR) if needed.
Tips for working with uploaded files
For large documents, you might need to split them into smaller parts or ask Claude to focus on specific sections. Very long files may exceed the context window.
If you're uploading a spreadsheet, Claude can analyze data but may not perform complex calculations perfectly. Double-check any numerical results.
When uploading images, ensure they are clear and well-lit if you want Claude to read text or describe details accurately.
Common mistakes
- Trying to upload unsupported file types like MP3 or ZIP; convert them first.
- Assuming Claude can edit the file directly—it can only read and discuss the content.
- Uploading a file that's too large and getting an error; compress or split it.
