Cowork Global Instructions Baseline
Standard global instructions template for every Cowork session: read context files first, ask clarifying questions before executing, show plan before action, default output .docx, never delete without explicit approval.
- Set up standard safety rules so Claude always asks before deleting
- Configure Claude to read your context files before every task
- Ensure all outputs default to Word document format automatically
Global instructions are the only persistent memory layer across standalone Cowork sessions. Without them, Claude reverts to defaults every session. These rules prevent destructive actions and enforce consistent professional output.
Every Cowork user — configure before running your first task.
https://support.claude.com/en/articles/13345190-get-started-...
By Anthropic + Corey Ganim (@coreyganim)
How to Get It
In Claude Cowork: Open the Customize panel in the sidebar → Folder Instructions, and paste the instructions below. Claude will follow them automatically in that folder.
In Claude Code: Add these instructions to your project's CLAUDE.md file, or paste them into your conversation and ask Claude to save them.
## Global Instructions I am [Your Name], [Your Role]. Before starting any task: 1. Read my context files first 2. Always ask clarifying questions before making assumptions 3. Present a plan before executing multi-step tasks Communication style: - Be direct and concise - Use bullet points over paragraphs - Flag risks and tradeoffs proactively - If you're unsure, say so — don't guess Never delete files without asking. Never make changes outside the project folder.
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Discussed on Reddit
- Claude Cowork is the most underrated tool Anthropic has shipped. Here is the com — Reddit · 110 pts
- Claude Cowork is the most underrated tool Anthropic has shipped. Here is the com — Reddit · 35 pts
- Everything Claude Has Shipped in 2026: Full Reference — Reddit · 1 pts
5 mentions across 1 sources
Reviewer notes
Listed review. These are observations, not a security certification.
Official Anthropic feature (Settings > Cowork > Edit Global Instructions). Template endorsed by both Anthropic docs and community. Only persistent memory layer across standalone sessions. Critical safety rule: never delete without explicit approval.
2026-03-29: Template: 'I am [Name], [Role]. Before starting any task, read my context files first. Always ask clarifying questions before executing. Show a brief plan before taking action. Default output: .docx. Never delete files without my explicit approval.' Set via: Settings > Cowork > Edit Global Instructions For per-project context: also set Folder Instructions on each project folder. Official docs: https://support.claude.com/en/articles/13345190-get-started-with-cowork Masterclass: https://x.com/coreyganim/status/2028470330247803361 Mind-map: https://x.com/Nate_Google_/status/2029214467280482608
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Evaluation
Official Anthropic feature (Settings > Cowork > Edit Global Instructions). Template endorsed by both Anthropic docs and community. Only persistent memory layer across standalone sessions. Critical safety rule: never delete without explicit approval.