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.