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How to set up custom instructions on Claude

beginner 8 min read Updated 2026-03-18
Quick Answer

Custom instructions on Claude allow you to set persistent preferences for how Claude responds to your queries. You can configure these through the Settings menu by defining your role, communication style, and specific requirements that will apply to all future conversations.

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Prerequisites

  • Active Claude account
  • Access to Claude web interface or mobile app
  • Basic understanding of AI prompting
  • Clear idea of your preferred response style

Step-by-Step Instructions

1

Access Claude Settings

Navigate to Claude's web interface at claude.ai and log into your account. Click on your profile icon or avatar in the top-right corner of the screen, then select Settings from the dropdown menu.
If you're using the mobile app, look for the three-line menu icon and find Settings there.
2

Find Custom Instructions

In the Settings menu, look for the Custom Instructions or Preferences section. This may be listed under a Personalization tab or as a separate menu item depending on your Claude interface version.
3

Define Your Role and Context

In the first text box labeled What would you like Claude to know about you?, provide relevant information about yourself, your profession, interests, and any context that helps Claude understand your perspective. For example: I'm a software developer working primarily with Python and React. I prefer concise explanations with practical examples.
Be specific but concise - aim for 2-4 sentences that capture the most relevant details about your background.
4

Set Response Preferences

In the second text box labeled How would you like Claude to respond?, specify your preferred communication style, format, and any special requirements. Example: Please provide step-by-step explanations, use bullet points for lists, and always include code examples when relevant. Keep responses professional but conversational.
Think about tone, length, formatting preferences, and any specific requirements for your use case.
5

Configure Advanced Options

If available, explore additional settings such as Default Language, Response Length preferences, or Expertise Level. Some versions may offer toggles for specific behaviors like Show working steps or Include sources.
6

Review and Save Settings

Carefully review your custom instructions for clarity and completeness. Ensure they accurately reflect your needs without being overly restrictive. Click Save or Apply Changes to activate your custom instructions.
Your instructions should be clear enough that someone else could understand what you want from Claude.
7

Test Your Custom Instructions

Start a new conversation with Claude to test your custom instructions. Ask a question related to your field or interests and observe whether Claude's response aligns with your specified preferences. Make note of any adjustments needed.
It may take a few interactions to fine-tune your instructions for optimal results.
8

Refine and Update

Based on your testing, return to Settings > Custom Instructions to refine your preferences. You can modify these instructions at any time. Consider updating them as your needs evolve or you discover more effective ways to communicate your preferences.
Keep your instructions current - outdated preferences can lead to less helpful responses.

Common Issues & Troubleshooting

Custom Instructions option not visible in Settings

Ensure you're using the latest version of Claude and that custom instructions are available in your region. Try refreshing the page or logging out and back in. Some Claude versions may call this feature Preferences or Personalization instead.

Claude not following custom instructions consistently

Make your instructions more specific and clear. Avoid contradictory requirements and ensure your instructions are concise. Try rephrasing vague preferences with concrete examples of what you want.

Instructions seem to be ignored in certain conversations

Custom instructions may not apply to all conversation types or may be overridden by specific prompts. Check that you haven't started a conversation with conflicting instructions, and verify your settings are still saved properly.

Unable to save custom instructions

Check your internet connection and ensure you haven't exceeded any character limits for the instruction fields. Try clearing your browser cache or using a different browser if the issue persists.

Prices mentioned in this guide are pulled from current plan data and may change. Always verify on the official Claude website before purchasing.
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