ECShopX/tdd-guard/docs/custom-instructions.md

Custom TDD Instructions

Customize TDD Guard's validation rules to match your specific TDD practices.

How It Works

TDD Guard uses validation rules to enforce TDD principles. You can override these default rules by creating a custom instructions file at .claude/tdd-guard/data/instructions.md.

Automatic Setup

If you have the SessionStart hook configured, the instructions file is created automatically with default rules when:

• Starting a new Claude Code session
• Resuming a session
• Using the /clear command

Your custom instructions are never overwritten - once created, the file remains under your control.

Creating Custom Instructions

1. Edit .claude/tdd-guard/data/instructions.md
2. Adjust or replace the default rules with your TDD requirements
3. Changes take effect immediately - no restart needed

Updating to Latest Defaults

When updating TDD Guard, you may want the latest default instructions:

1. Delete .claude/tdd-guard/data/instructions.md
2. Trigger the SessionStart hook (start new session or use /clear)
3. The latest defaults will be created automatically

Alternatively, you can manually copy the default rules from src/validation/prompts/rules.ts.

Protecting Your Instructions

Prevent agents from modifying your custom instructions by denying access to TDD Guard data. See Strengthening TDD Enforcement for details.

Tips

• Start with the default instructions and modify incrementally
• Keep rules clear and actionable for consistent validation
• Share effective customizations with the TDD Guard community in GitHub Discussions