Context Packet Template

A Context Packet is the complete bundle of information an agent needs to execute a task. It includes the Live Spec reference, architectural rules, Golden Samples, domain knowledge, tool permissions, Token Budget allocation, and scope boundaries. This template provides a standardized structure for assembling context packets so that nothing is forgotten and every agent receives consistent, high-quality input.

The Context Architect is responsible for creating context packets. In practice, most of the content comes from the Context Index — the team's curated repository of reusable context assets. The context packet template is the assembly guide that pulls the right pieces together for a specific task.

A well-assembled context packet is the difference between an agent that produces reviewable output on the first attempt and an agent that burns through its Token Budget asking implicit questions or making assumptions. Every minute spent on context assembly saves multiple minutes of agent retries and human correction.

Use this template when:

• A Live Spec has been approved and is ready for agent execution
• An agent needs to work in an area of the codebase that has domain-specific rules or conventions
• A Rescue Mission revealed that the previous context packet was incomplete
• The team is standardizing how context is provided to agents across multiple workflows
• A new team member is learning how to prepare tasks for agent execution

Before assembling a context packet, verify that:

• The referenced Live Spec has been reviewed and marked as ready
• All referenced files (golden samples, constitution, schemas) exist and are current
• The total token count of all included files fits within the model's context window with room for reasoning