Custom instructions are standing notes that ZeroTwo includes in your conversations, so you do not have to repeat who you are or how you like answers written. You manage them in Settings under Personalization.
Add or edit your custom instructions
- Select your name at the bottom of the sidebar to open the account menu, then choose Settings. On the web app Settings opens as a dialog. In the desktop app it opens as a full page.
- Choose Personalization, then open the Companion tab.
- Find Custom instructions and make sure the switch next to it is on. The line under it reads "Include your profile and custom instructions in every conversation".
- Type in the text box. Its placeholder suggests adding background information, preferences, or any context that would help it understand you better.
- Select Save. The button appears as soon as you change the text.
The iPhone, iPad and Android apps have the same switch and text box under Settings > Personalization > Companion.
What the switch controls
The switch decides whether your custom instructions are used. When it is off, the text box is disabled and the text in it is not sent with your messages. Turn the switch back on to use it again.
Details about you live on the Profile tab: Display / preferred name, Occupation, More about you and Your interests. You can pick up to three interests.
How ZeroTwo treats them
ZeroTwo handles your custom instructions as direct standing orders rather than as things it has learned about you. They take precedence over the profile text and saved memories ZeroTwo also has, unless following them would conflict with platform safety rules or the way a tool has to be used. If the text box is empty, ZeroTwo has nothing extra to add.
Related settings
- Base style and tone sits above Custom instructions on the same tab. See Choosing how ZeroTwo sounds.
- Remove static instructions is a separate switch on the Companion tab. It strips ZeroTwo's tool instructions and rules from the system prompt for a more natural, personalized chat.
- Each project has its own Instructions field, described below.
Instructions for a single project
To give one project its own guidance, open the project's menu in the sidebar and choose Project settings. The Instructions field there is for setting context and customizing how ZeroTwo responds in that project. It holds up to 8,000 characters, and a counter under the field shows how many you have used.
Tips for writing them
- Say what you want in plain sentences, such as the role you work in, the format you prefer, or things to avoid.
- Keep passwords, card numbers and other secrets out of this box.
- Edit or clear the text whenever your needs change.