Why Cursor AI Isn't Working for You (and How to Fix It)
Struggling with Cursor AI? Learn how to properly use Cursor with Claude to maximize your coding productivity. Common mistakes and practical solutions explained.
Many developers have been telling me that Cursor AI "doesn't work" for them. But here's the thing - Cursor works amazingly well when you understand how to use it properly. The problem often isn't with Cursor itself, but with how we're approaching it.
The biggest mistake? Treating Cursor's AI (Claude) like a magic wand that will write perfect code instantly. That's not how it works - Cursor is a collaborative tool that requires proper guidance from you.
Here's what you're probably doing wrong:
Vague Prompts Lead to Vague Results
When you tell Cursor "make this better" or "fix this code", you're not giving it enough context. Instead, try:
"Review this function for performance issues, particularly around the database queries and suggest specific optimizations"
See the difference? The second prompt gives Claude a clear direction and scope.
Not Using Context Effectively
Cursor's Claude can see your entire codebase, but you need to point it to the relevant parts. Before asking for changes, highlight the specific code block or file you want it to focus on.
For example, instead of "add authentication", try:
"Looking at this UserController.php file, add JWT authentication following our existing middleware pattern and using the Auth facade"
Ignoring the Conversation Flow
Claude isn't just a code generator - it's a conversational AI that remembers your discussion. Build on previous interactions instead of starting fresh each time.
Bad approach: "Write a React component" "Now make it responsive" "Add dark mode"
Better approach: "Let's create a React component for displaying user profiles. We'll need responsive design and dark mode support. First, show me the basic structure..."
Not Being Specific About Architecture
When asking Cursor to generate code, specify your architecture preferences. This avoids getting code that doesn't match your project's patterns.
Instead of "create an API endpoint", say:
"Create an API endpoint following our repository pattern, where we have service classes handling business logic and repositories managing data access"
Expecting Perfect Code Generation
Cursor is fantastic at suggesting code and helping you understand different approaches, but it shouldn't be your only tool. Use it as a collaborative partner - review its suggestions, ask questions, and iterate.
Think of Claude as a very knowledgeable colleague who can help you explore solutions, not as a replacement for your development skills.
The Right Way to Use Cursor
Here's a real example of an effective interaction:
Me: I need help with this user registration system. Here's my current UserController:
[paste code]
Claude, can you review this focusing on:
1. Input validation
2. Password security
3. Error handling
Looking specifically for modern PHP 8.3 practices.
Claude: I notice a few areas we could improve...
[detailed analysis follows]
This approach works because it:
- Provides specific code context
- Clearly defines what needs reviewing
- Specifies the technical requirements
- Keeps focus on one aspect at a time
Many developers struggling with Cursor are approaching it with unrealistic expectations or unclear communication. Understanding that it's a collaborative tool rather than a code generation machine will dramatically improve your results.
The key is being specific, providing context, and treating Cursor's AI as a knowledgeable colleague rather than a magic solution. Start with this mindset, and you'll see why many developers consider Cursor an indispensable part of their workflow.
Learn more about Cursor AI in my course: