In the main chat, you run the current stage and give feedback that changes the work. In a separate chat, you can ask about a term or option: “Explain without editing files or running changes.” A decision from a side conversation returns to the lead chat before it affects implementation.
After a larger stage or a change of topic, prepare a new chat in the same project. First the agent saves status, version, checks, open matters, and the next step in the existing plan. Only then does the new agent read files. A new chat does not guarantee knowledge of the earlier conversation and is not needed after every correction.
Prepare a handoff of work to a new chat in the same project. Use task-handoff if it is available. In the existing plan, record the current version, completed scope, check results, open matters, and the next agreed step. Do not create a second plan. Give me a short prompt for the start of the new conversation that names the files to read. Do not send it yourself or expand the scope of approvals.
Check in the new chat: the agent identifies the right next step from the files. It should not need the full history of the earlier conversation.