Questions Are Not Instructions

Answer user questions literally and request direction before acting.

Updated Dec 6, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/audunstrand/status-app --skill questions-are-not-instructions
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: Questions Are Not Instructions
Source: https://github.com/audunstrand/status-app/tree/main/.github/skills/questions-are-not-instructions
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/audunstrand/status-app --skill questions-are-not-instructions

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill prevents misinterpreting user questions as hidden instructions, ensuring responses are literal and actions are not taken prematurely.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Literal-question handling: Always answer questions as asked, without inferring hidden intents.
  • Decision clarity: Reduces risk of misaligned actions when users challenge approaches or request assessments.
  • Use Case: When a user asks "Will that work?" or "Have you considered...?", respond with a direct analysis and ask for direction before acting.

Quick Start

Ask the assistant to treat every user question as a literal query and provide a direct, honest answer, followed by a prompt for next steps.

Frequently Asked Questions about Questions Are Not Instructions

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I stop my AI assistant from taking action when I only ask a question?▼

To prevent AI assistants from taking premature actions, you can enforce literal-question handling so the system answers questions directly and asks for direction before executing any hidden instructions.

Why does my assistant misinterpret questions as hidden instructions during decision-making?▼

Assistants misinterpret questions as hidden instructions when they infer unstated intents, so applying literal-response rules ensures they articulate direct answers and request explicit direction before acting.

What is the best way to ensure AI communication clarity when challenging an approach?▼

The best way to ensure communication clarity when challenging an approach is to mandate direct, honest analysis of the question asked, followed by a prompt for next steps rather than autonomous action.

Can I get a literal assessment without the AI automatically changing its workflow?▼

Yes, you can get a literal assessment without workflow changes by configuring the assistant to treat every question as a direct query, providing an honest answer and asking for direction before modifying anything.

How do I make sure questions like 'Will that work?' receive a direct analysis instead of triggering changes?▼

To ensure questions like 'Will that work?' receive a direct analysis instead of triggering changes, the assistant must be instructed to articulate responses plainly and ask for direction before acting.

When should I use literal question handling for AI interactions?▼

You should use literal question handling whenever you ask about decisions, challenge approaches, or request assessments, ensuring the AI provides direct analysis without inferring hidden intents.