harden-instructions

Review and rewrite instruction files for clarity and reduced ambiguity.

Updated Apr 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/robertdp/claude-code-skills --skill harden-instructions
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: harden-instructions
Source: https://github.com/robertdp/claude-code-skills/tree/main/skills/harden-instructions
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/robertdp/claude-code-skills --skill harden-instructions

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill reviews instruction files such as CLAUDE.md, project rules, and agent specs, then rewrites them for clearer, more reliable compliance.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Instruction Audit: Checks files for ambiguity, soft language, conflicts, missing scope, and buried rules that models may miss.
  • Budget-Aware Hardening: Evaluates instruction density and recommends consolidation or deletion when a file is too long or too crowded.
  • Targeted Rewrite Support: Produces a revised draft that preserves intent while making instructions more actionable and consistent.
  • Use Case: Use this Skill when a project’s instructions feel too loose, too long, or too easy for an AI assistant to misread.

Quick Start

Ask the skill to harden the instruction file at the path you want reviewed.

Frequently Asked Questions about harden-instructions

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I make AI instructions in CLAUDE.md less ambiguous and easier to follow?

To make AI instructions less ambiguous, audit instruction files like CLAUDE.md for soft language, conflicts, and missing scope, then apply a targeted rewrite that preserves intent while making rules more actionable and consistent.

Why does my AI assistant ignore project rules or miss buried instructions?

AI assistants ignore project rules when instructions contain soft language, conflicts, or excessive density that buries key directives. Auditing the instruction file identifies these patterns and consolidates rules for better compliance.

What is the best way to harden agent specs for stricter compliance?

The best way to harden agent specs is to review them for missing scope and ambiguity, evaluate instruction density, and produce a revised draft that makes instructions more actionable while preserving the original intent.

How do I reduce instruction file length when project rules are too long or crowded?

To reduce instruction file length, evaluate instruction density and apply budget-aware hardening to recommend consolidation or deletion of crowded rules, ensuring the file remains clear and effective for AI workflows.

Can I rewrite instruction files without losing the original project intent?

Yes, targeted rewrite support produces a revised draft of your instruction files that preserves the original project intent while making the instructions more actionable, consistent, and clear for AI compliance.

When should I audit my AI workflow instructions for compliance issues?

You should audit AI workflow instructions for compliance issues when a project's rules feel too loose, too long, or too easy for an AI assistant to misread, indicating the need for a targeted rewrite.