Checkpointed long task setup: AI agent prompt
Set up long agent runs to save progress, check their own work, and resume instead of starting over, a widely shared X thread on agent harness setup.
CodingLong-running tasksintermediateThe prompt
Before you start this long task: [describe], write a PLAN.md with numbered steps and a 'done when' check for each. After every step, update a PROGRESS.md with what's finished, what's next, and any open problems. Verify each step (run tests or re-read the output) before moving on. If you get stuck or run out of time, stop and leave notes so a fresh run can pick up from PROGRESS.md.
How to use it
- Copy the prompt above.
- Replace every [bracket] with your own details (or fill in the blanks on AgentPlaybook Real Estate, which remembers your answers for the next prompt).
- Paste it into Claude Code, Codex, Cursor and review the answer before you use it.
Works with: Claude Code, Codex, Cursor
Real-world example: x.com/beamnxw/status/2107522996046905797
Before you use it: what to check
Already built into this prompt
- Verify each step (run tests or re-read the output) before moving on.
Check yourself
- Don't let AI make the final call on hiring, pay, performance or discipline. Use it to organise information, and have a person decide using criteria you can explain.
- Check names, dates, numbers and any claim against your own source material before you use the answer. AI can misread or invent details.
Using an AI agent? Download this prompt as a SKILL.md agent skill with these checks built in, or get the .zip for Claude.ai. How to install skills.
Want to make this prompt even better? Grade it with the free prompt grader or build your own with the AI prompt generator.
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