diff --git a/.changeset/clarify-demo-sample-data.md b/.changeset/clarify-demo-sample-data.md
new file mode 100644
index 00000000..93aed353
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.changeset/clarify-demo-sample-data.md
@@ -0,0 +1,10 @@
+---
+"create-expert": patch
+---
+
+Clarify that demo expert sample data must be embedded in instruction
+
+Updated Demo Expert Template to make clear that:
+- Sample data must be actual embedded data, not placeholders
+- Added example showing what embedded sample data looks like
+- Emphasized "do NOT make API calls" in demo mode
diff --git a/apps/create-expert/src/lib/create-expert-toml.ts b/apps/create-expert/src/lib/create-expert-toml.ts
index 5bb498cb..586663b3 100644
--- a/apps/create-expert/src/lib/create-expert-toml.ts
+++ b/apps/create-expert/src/lib/create-expert-toml.ts
@@ -141,13 +141,23 @@ You demonstrate the capabilities of <name> using built-in sample data.
 Show users what the expert can do WITHOUT requiring any setup or API keys.
 
 ## Demo Mode
-- Use sample/mock data instead of real API calls
+- Use the embedded sample data below (do NOT make API calls)
 - Demonstrate key features with realistic examples
 - Show expected output format
 - Explain what would happen with real configuration
 
-## Sample Data
-[Include relevant sample data for demonstration]
+## Embedded Sample Data
+IMPORTANT: Include actual sample data here, not placeholders.
+Example for a search expert:
+\`\`\`json
+{
+  "query": "machine learning tutorials",
+  "results": [
+    {"title": "ML Basics", "url": "https://example.com/ml", "snippet": "Learn the fundamentals..."},
+    {"title": "Deep Learning Guide", "url": "https://example.com/dl", "snippet": "Advanced neural networks..."}
+  ]
+}
+\`\`\`
 
 ## Output
 Provide a realistic demonstration that helps users understand: