Step 4: Operational Setup

What You'll Do

Extend your OpenClaw setup with memory, automation, and useful skills.

Add Memory System

1. Configure MEMORY.md

Create `MEMORY.md` in your workspace:

# My OpenClaw Memory
Preferences
I prefer concise responses
I work on web development projects
Key Information
Main project: [Your Project Name]
Tech stack: Next.js, TypeScript, Tailwind

2. Configure SOUL.md (Optional)

Define your assistant's personality:

# My Assistant's Soul
You are a helpful technical assistant with a focus on clarity and efficiency.
Always provide code examples when relevant.

Install Essential Skills

npx clawhub@latest install weather
npx clawhub@latest install github

Set Up Heartbeat

Add a heartbeat check to openclaw.json:

{
  "heartbeat": {
    "enabled": true,
    "intervalMinutes": 60
  }
}

Verification

Ask your assistant to check the weather

Verify MEMORY.md is being referenced in responses

Wait for the first heartbeat ping

Pass Criteria

✅ Memory system is working (assistant remembers preferences)

✅ At least 2 skills are installed and functional

✅ Heartbeat runs successfully

Next Step

Complete your setup with [Step 5: Quality Checkpoint](/step/5).