Install Node.js
Node.js runs the JavaScript scripts that power your brain's skills - things like fetching YouTube transcripts, processing newsletters, and generating reports.
This is a one-time install.
Step 1: Download Node.js
Go to nodejs.org and download the LTS (Long Term Support) version. This is the big green button on the left.
Don't download the "Current" version - LTS is more stable.
Step 2: Install
Mac: Open the downloaded file and follow the installer prompts.
Windows: Run the downloaded installer and accept all defaults.
The installer handles everything. Just click "Next" through each step.
Step 3: Verify (Optional)
If you want to confirm it worked, open your editor's terminal and type:
node --version
You should see a version number like v22.14.0 (the exact number doesn't matter, as long as it shows a version).
What Node.js Does
You won't interact with Node.js directly. Claude Code uses it behind the scenes to:
- Run brain skills (JavaScript scripts)
- Install dependencies your brain needs
- Execute automation scripts
- Process data files
Troubleshooting
"node: command not found" - Close and reopen your editor after installing Node.js. The terminal needs to refresh to find newly installed programs.
Mac: Permission errors - If the installer asks for your password, that's normal. Enter your Mac login password.
Windows: Install fails - Make sure you're running the installer as Administrator. Right-click the installer and choose "Run as administrator".
Next step: Install Cursor or Anti-Gravity