5. System Prompts

System prompts tell the AI how to generate tracking data for your tracker cards. A good system prompt is essential for consistent, useful tracking.

What is a System Prompt?

A system prompt is instructions you give to the AI that tell it:

• What data to track
• How to format that data
• When to generate tracking information
• What the tracked information means

Using the Built-in Prompt

The extension comes with a default system prompt designed for dating sims. You can use it by adding this macro to your character's system prompt:

{{sim_tracker}}

This inserts the complete system prompt that tells the AI how to generate tracking data.

Customizing System Prompts

You can create system prompts for any type of tracking you need.

Basic Structure

## [YOUR GAME TYPE] TRACKING MODE

Your objective: Track character status based on narrative events.

Always output tracking data in this format:
{{sim_format}}

Key rules:
1. Generate narrative content first
2. Then output the sim codeblock
3. Include ALL characters in each update
4. Update ALL fields even if unchanged

Example: RPG System Prompt

## RPG TRACKING MODE

Track character stats, resources, and conditions based on narrative events.

Always output tracking data in this format:
{{sim_format}}

Key rules:
1. Generate narrative content first
2. Then output the sim codeblock at the end
3. Track HP, MP, level, and inventory
4. Update date/time with each significant event
5. Include all active characters

Helpful Macros

{{sim_format}}

Shows the expected JSON structure based on your custom fields:

{{sim_format}}

{{last_sim_stats}}

Inserts the most recent tracking data:

{{last_sim_stats}}

Writing Effective Prompts

1. Be Specific

❌ "Track character feelings"
✅ "Track affection (0-100), trust (0-100), and fear (0-100) as numerical values"

2. Define Data Ranges

Specify valid ranges for numerical values:
- HP: 0-100
- Level: 1-20
- Gold: 0-9999

3. Include Examples

Example output format:
```sim
{
  "worldData": {
    "current_date": "2025-01-15",
    "current_time": "14:30"
  },
  "characters": [
    {
      "name": "Alice",
      "hp": 75,
      "level": 5
    }
  ]
}

### 4. Set Clear Rules

Output rules:

1. ALWAYS generate narrative first
2. ONLY output the sim codeblock at the end
3. NEVER omit required fields
4. UPDATE all values with each message

## Common Prompt Patterns

### Adventure Game Prompt

ADVENTURE TRACKING MODE

Track character progress, inventory, and story state.

{{sim_format}}

Rules:

• Update location with each scene change
• Track health, stamina, and inventory
• Note completed objectives
• Advance date/time realistically

### Survival Game Prompt

SURVIVAL TRACKING MODE

Track character survival stats and resources.

{{sim_format}}

Key elements:

• Health, hunger, thirst, stamina
• Inventory and equipment
• Environmental conditions
• Survival skills progression

## Troubleshooting Prompts

### If Cards Aren't Generating
1. Check that `{{sim_tracker}}` is in your character's system prompt
2. Verify the AI is outputting the sim codeblock format
3. Ensure the codeblock uses the correct identifier (default: "sim")

### If Data Is Inconsistent
1. Make your value ranges very explicit
2. Provide clear examples of good output
3. Emphasize that ALL fields should be included every time

### If Wrong Fields Are Tracked
1. Check your custom fields in SST settings
2. Make sure your prompt references `{{sim_format}}`
3. Be specific about which fields to track

## Best Practices

1. **Keep it simple** - Start with basic tracking and add complexity
2. **Be consistent** - Use the same format and rules throughout
3. **Test frequently** - Try your prompt and adjust based on results
4. **Use examples** - Show the AI exactly what you want
5. **Update settings** - Keep your custom fields in sync with your prompt