Quick Reference: The Layering Cheat Sheet
Recall the key distinctions among system rules, knowledge sources, and live requests when building assistants.
Which layer owns the rule versus the source? Core split If it should stay true across many chats, it is probably a rule. If it should be consulted, it is probably a source. What belongs in a system prompt? Think stable behavior Role, priorities, output shape, source precedence, and uncertainty behavior. Keep it focused on operating policy, not long source documents. What belongs in a knowledge file? Think reference content Policies, handbooks, product docs, rubrics, examples, and other material the assistant should use as evidence. Knowledge is source material, not workflow control. “If it matters, put it in the prompt.”…
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