writing-ai-instructions

Standardize AI instruction design using an eight-section template.

Updated Feb 3, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/mikejhill/copilot-instructions --skill writing-ai-instructions
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: writing-ai-instructions
Source: https://github.com/mikejhill/copilot-instructions/tree/main/.github/skills/writing-ai-instructions
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/mikejhill/copilot-instructions --skill writing-ai-instructions

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill standardizes the creation of AI instruction sets by guiding users to produce deterministic, unambiguous commands that models can execute with minimal interpretation.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Eight-section template enforcement: objective, scope, inputs, outputs, constraints, procedure, validation, and examples.
  • Conflict resolution and guardrails: explicit rules for prioritization when criteria conflict.
  • Persona support and concrete examples: include targeted perspectives and real-world demonstrations.
  • Applicability: for agents, prompts, or custom instruction files used in model-powered workflows.

Quick Start

Create an eight-section instruction template for a given task, then populate each section with precise, imperative requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions about writing-ai-instructions

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

FAQPage Schema
What is a structured template for writing AI instructions?

An AI instruction template standardizes command design using eight sections: objective, scope, inputs, outputs, constraints, procedure, validation, and examples. This structure enforces exact language rules to minimize model interpretation errors.

How do I write deterministic prompts for AI agents?

Write deterministic AI agent prompts by populating an eight-section template with imperative requirements. Define explicit conflict resolution clauses, personas, and concrete examples to enforce exact structure and language rules.

How do I add conflict resolution rules to custom instruction files?

Add conflict resolution to custom instruction files by defining explicit prioritization rules within the constraints section. This establishes guardrails that direct the model to follow exact prioritization when criteria conflict.

Can I use an eight-section instruction template for any model-powered workflow?

Yes, the eight-section instruction template applies broadly to model-powered workflows. It supports authoring deterministic instructions for agents, prompts, or custom instruction files across various tasks.

What's the best way to structure AI prompts to avoid ambiguous outputs?

Structure AI prompts using an eight-section template covering objective, scope, inputs, outputs, constraints, procedure, validation, and examples. This enforces deterministic, actionable instruction sets that eliminate ambiguous model outputs.

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