# Scratchpads and temporary workspaces

Start without a folder for questions or planning, then attach or create a project only when the task needs persistent files.

![Scratchpads and temporary workspaces in Foxora Desktop v5.0.3](/docs/images/v5.0.3/desktop/projects-overview.webp)

## Where this lives

Open **foxora → Projects** and select the project you intend to use.

A project grants a task access to a specific local folder or Git repository and supplies the working directory used by files, shell commands, and project instructions.

> **Safety:** Foxora should not receive a parent folder merely for convenience. A project can contain secrets even when they are not mentioned in the prompt.

## Steps

1. Open **foxora → Projects** and select the project you intend to use.
2. Start without a folder for questions or planning.
3. Attach or create a project only when the task needs persistent files.
4. **Confirm the result.** Ask Foxora to identify the active project, read a harmless file, and show the exact path without changing anything.

## Choose the right path

- Use a local folder for existing work.
- Clone or open a Git repository when history matters.
- Use a scratchpad when no file access is required.


## Confirm it worked

- Ask Foxora to identify the active project, read a harmless file, and show the exact path without changing anything.
- The screen, command, file, run, or destination named in this guide reflects the expected state.