Cowork Three-Question Delegation Framework
Structured delegation prompt pattern using three questions before any task: (1) What is the end state? (2) What constraints apply? (3) What does success look like? Combined with end-state prompt structure that describes desired output before explaining current state.
- Get better results by structuring requests with three clear questions
- Define success criteria before Claude starts any complex task
- Transform vague instructions into precise, actionable delegation
Most Cowork failures come from ambiguous task delegation. This framework forces clarity upfront, reducing back-and-forth and misaligned outputs. The end-state-first structure mirrors how good managers delegate.
Business professionals new to AI delegation who consistently get mediocre results from vague prompts
https://x.com/coreyganim/status/2028470330247803361
By Corey Ganim
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.
## Delegation Framework Before starting any task, answer these three questions: 1. End State: When this is done, what exactly exists that didn't before? 2. Constraints: What must NOT change? What format is required? 3. Success Criteria: How will I know it's done correctly? When writing prompts, describe the desired end state FIRST, then explain the current situation: - "I need [specific output] that [meets these criteria]" - "Currently, [the situation is X]" - "Success looks like [measurable outcome]" Never start a complex task without answering all three questions.
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- 7 AI Prompts Based on Covey's Legendary Seven Habits That Transformed My Life — Reddit · 106 pts
- The complete guide to Claude Cowork that Anthropic should have given us - gettin — Reddit · 54 pts
- How to Setup Claude Cowork? — Reddit · 52 pts
12 mentions across 1 sources
Reviewer notes
Personally Tested review. These are observations, not a security certification.
Pure prompt pattern — no tools, no install, no risk. Addresses the #1 failure mode (vague delegation). Immediately usable by any client. Excellent onboarding anchor.
2026-03-29: Framework from Corey Ganim. Three pre-delegation questions: 1) End state — 'When this is done, what exactly exists that didn't before?' 2) Constraints — 'What must NOT change? What format is required?' 3) Success criteria — 'How will I know it's done correctly?' End-state prompt structure: describe desired output first, then current state, then any constraints. Works for both one-shot tasks and ongoing workflow design. Excellent onboarding prompt for new clients.
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Evaluation
Pure prompt pattern — no tools, no install, no risk. Addresses the #1 failure mode (vague delegation). Immediately usable by any client. Excellent onboarding anchor.