SigMap supports three modes: full, per-module, and hot-cold. This page shows exactly when to use each one, what token cost to expect, and how MCP changes the decision.
At a glance
| Strategy | Always injected | Context loss | MCP required | Best fit |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| full | ~4,000 tokens | No | No | Default for all IDEs and onboarding |
| per-module | ~100-300 tokens overview | No | No | Module-based projects, focused work |
| hot-cold | ~200-800 hot set | Cold files unless fetched | Yes for cold | Claude Code / Cursor with MCP |
How to use
Use the same config file key for all modes. Switch mode, run once, and compare token output with --report.
Single output file with all signatures. Best if you want complete context all the time and do not want to manage additional files.
{ "strategy": "full", "maxTokens": 6000 }Writes one file per top-level module plus a tiny overview. You inject only the module you are currently working on.
{ "srcDirs": ["server", "web", "desktop"], "strategy": "per-module" }Recently changed files stay hot and auto-injected. Everything else goes to context-cold.md and should be pulled via MCP when needed.
{ "strategy": "hot-cold", "hotCommits": 10, "diffPriority": true }Case by case
Use this section to decide quickly based on your workflow, not just token numbers.
You edited auth files in the last few commits and need fast iteration.
Winner: hot-cold. Hot set already contains the files you are editing.
You need frontend + backend context in one answer. MCP may or may not be available.
Winner: per-module. Load both module files, no context loss and no MCP dependency.
Claude Code / Cursor is standard across the team and MCP is always available.
Winner: hot-cold. Keep always-on tiny and fetch cold context only when needed.
Need broad project understanding quickly, with minimal setup complexity.
Winner: full. One file, complete picture, no additional workflow steps.
Decision tree
More detail
For complete migration steps, compatibility matrix, and advanced examples, use the full Markdown guide.