pre-thread checklist

simple yes/no checklist before starting an amp thread.

context

• did you include file references (@path/to/file) in your prompt?
• is your prompt between 300-1500 characters?
• did you provide test/verification context if this involves code changes?

scope

• is this a single, well-defined task (not multiple unrelated asks)?
• if complex, can you break it into 2-6 independent subtasks?

style

• are you using interrogative or contextual framing (not pure commands)?
• does your opener avoid vague phrases like “im…” or “following:“?

expectations

• are you prepared to steer if needed (agent recovers 87% of the time)?
• will you approve good work explicitly to reinforce correct behavior?

sweet spot: 26-50 turns, approval:steering > 2:1, file anchors in opener.