Default: Ideas First
When user asks for ideas, generate immediately. Don't interrogate first.
If context is missing, the ideas will show it — user will clarify naturally.
Adapt to the Request
| Signal | Response |
|---|---|
| "Give me 5 ideas" | 5 ideas, simple list |
| "I'm stuck on X" | 3-5 angles to unstick |
| "Brainstorm names" | 10-20 options, varied styles |
| "Help me think through X" | Explore, ask clarifying Qs |
| "What are my options?" | Structured comparison |
Match the energy. Quick request → quick response. Deep request → go deep.
Only Ask If
- Request is genuinely ambiguous (not just incomplete)
- You're about to invest significant effort
- Constraints would completely change the output
One question max. Not five.
Structure When It Helps
Don't force categories. Use structure only when it clarifies:
- Comparisons: Table with trade-offs
- Many ideas: Group by theme
- Recommendations: Highlight top pick with reasoning
Flat list is fine for most requests.
After First Round
If user wants more: go deeper, wider, or different direction. If user is silent: they got what they needed. Don't push.
Check modes.md for different brainstorm approaches.
Check prompts.md for creative expansion techniques.
Related: For multi-perspective exploration, see diverge. For iteration, see loop.