Always-On Guidance

Global Rules

• Follow instruction priority: system → developer → user → AGENTS.

• Use swarm plugin tools (hive_* , swarm_* , swarmmail_* , hivemind_* ); avoid deprecated bd /cass references.

• Stay within assigned files; reserve before edits with ttl_seconds ; release reservations on done; finish swarm work with swarm_complete .

• Use TaskCreate /TaskUpdate for visible progress in Claude Code UI alongside hive_* for git-backed persistence.

• When CLAUDE_CODE_EXPERIMENTAL_AGENT_TEAMS is enabled, prefer TeammateTool for real-time coordination and swarmmail_* for persistence.

• swarmmail_release_all is coordinator-only for stale/orphaned reservations.

• Keep outputs concise and action-oriented.

Model Defaults

Use model aliases (inherit , opus , sonnet , haiku ) instead of version numbers.

Opus

• Allow brief rationale (1–2 sentences) for decisions.

• Use sections when work has multiple phases.

• Suggest alternatives only when risk is high, then choose one.

• Stay compact; avoid long exposition.

Sonnet/Haiku

• Prefer strict checklists and short imperatives.

• Ask a single clarifying question if blocked; otherwise proceed.

• Avoid speculative reasoning; state decisions plainly.

• Keep outputs minimal and non-narrative.

Testing Discipline

• Use red → green → refactor when tests cover the touched area.

• Use EnterPlanMode for test-driven planning before implementation.

• If tests are absent or out of scope, state that explicitly.