How to set up custom instructions so AI always answers your way
Stop repeating yourself: set up custom instructions, memory and project files in ChatGPT, Claude and Grok, with a ready-made template.
In this guide (4 steps)
Every major assistant lets you save standing instructions about who you are and how you like answers. Set it once; every chat improves.
Where to find it
- ChatGPT: Settings → Personalization (custom instructions and memory). Projects can hold files and instructions per topic.
- Claude: Settings → Profile for personal preferences; Projects for per-topic instructions and knowledge files.
- Grok: look for personalization / custom instructions in settings.
- Gemini: "Saved info" and Gems for reusable setups.
Menus move around, so search the tool's help center if you don't see them.
A template to paste
About me: I'm a [role] at a [type of org]. I mostly use AI for [emails, spreadsheets, planning...]. I'm in [country], so use [units/spelling].
How to respond: Lead with the answer, then detail. Use bullets for lists. Keep it under 200 words unless I ask for more. Plain English, no hype.
When unsure: Say so and ask a clarifying question instead of guessing. Flag anything I should double-check.
Never: use emojis, add disclaimers I didn't ask for, invent sources.Use projects for recurring work
Create a project like "Client emails" with your style guide and FAQs attached. Every chat in it starts with that context.
Privacy check
Review what memory has stored (most tools let you view and delete memories) and check whether your chats are used for training in data settings.
Quick tips on this topic
⚡ Set custom instructions once
Tell your AI who you are and how you like answers. Every chat gets better.
⚡ Use projects for repeat work
Create a project with your style guide and FAQs so every chat starts with context.
⚡ Audit your AI's memory
Check what your assistant remembers about you and delete anything you don't want stored.
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