Rules
Set standing workspace instructions for Writing Assistant responses
Rules are standing instructions that Octarine adds to every Writing Assistant request in a workspace. Use them for preferences that should apply by default, without mentioning a Skill or repeating the instruction in each prompt.
Rules require an active Pro or trial license.
Add Workspace Rules
Open Settings → AI → Rules, enter the instructions, then choose Save Rule.
Write direct instructions that can apply to many requests. For example:
Prefer concise answers in plain language.
Use sentence-case headings.
Preserve Markdown links and frontmatter unless I ask to change them.
Call out uncertainty instead of inventing missing details.
Rules are added after Octarine's built-in Writing Assistant instructions. Keep them compatible with the defaults you want across many different requests.
Rules, Skills, or Slash Commands?
| Feature | Applied when | Best for | Stored in |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rules | Automatically on every Writing Assistant request in the workspace | Default voice, formatting preferences, and standing constraints | Device-specific workspace settings |
| Skills | When you select the Skill with @ | Reusable roles or workflows that you want to opt into per prompt | .octarine/skills/ |
| Slash Commands | When you choose or type the command in Writing Assistant | Reusable prompt text such as /tighten or /outline | .octarine/ai/slash_commands.json |
Rules apply automatically, so keep them broadly useful. Put specialized or occasionally conflicting instructions in a Skill instead.
Rules are part of the workspace's settings on this device. They are not written into the workspace folder or synced by Git or cloud storage, but they can be copied when you create a workspace using settings from an existing one.
Quick Answers
Where do I set AI Rules?
Open Settings → AI → Rules, enter the standing instructions, and choose Save Rule.
Do I need to mention Rules in each prompt?
No. Octarine automatically includes them with Writing Assistant requests in that workspace.
Should I use a Rule or a Skill?
Use a Rule for defaults that should always apply. Use a Skill for a reusable workflow or style you only want on selected prompts.