Separating Data and Instructions
Improve AI accuracy by clearly separating what you want done from the content being processed.
Structure for Success
Breaking apart instructions from content dramatically improves Omnifact’s understanding and response quality.
Why Separation Matters
Always separate your instructions from the content being processed. When you mix instructions with content, Omnifact can get confused about what you’re asking it to do versus what you want it to work with.
Think of it like giving someone a task: first tell them what to do, then give them the material to work with.
The Basic Structure
Use this reliable pattern for better results:
Example:
Using Delimiters to Create Clear Boundaries
Delimiters are visual separators that help Omnifact understand where instructions end and content begins. They can be used to separate instructions from content, or to separate different sections of content.
Advanced Separation Techniques
Multiple Content Sections
When working with multiple pieces of content, label each section clearly:
Instruction Layers
For complex tasks, separate different types of instructions:
Common Separation Mistakes
Burying Instructions in Context
Burying Instructions in Context
Problem: Instructions scattered throughout the content
Solution: Put all instructions at the beginning, then present content
Instead of: “This report [content] needs to be summarized for executives [more content] focusing on the budget section [more content]”
Try: “Summarize this report for executives, focusing on budget implications. REPORT: [full content]”
Forgetting Delimiters
Forgetting Delimiters
Problem: No clear boundary between instruction and content
Solution: Always use some form of visual separator
Add: Triple dashes (---), quotes ("""), or clear labels like “CONTENT:” or “DATA:”
Instructions Too Vague
Instructions Too Vague
Problem: Clear separation but unclear instructions
Solution: Be specific about what you want done before presenting the content
Instead of: “Help with this email: [content]”
Try: “Rewrite this email to be more concise and professional: [content]”
If you’re ever unsure whether your prompt is clear enough, try reading just the instruction part first. Can you understand exactly what needs to be done? If yes, you’ve got good separation!
Other Intermediate Guides
- Learn Thinking Step by Step to guide AI reasoning processes
- Explore Using Examples to show exactly what you want
- Master Avoiding Hallucinations to keep responses factual and grounded