From request to task · chapter 4 of 17
Context and sources: what AI sees and does not see
A good answer depends on the right context. The model only sees what the conversation, project and tools actually expose, and time-sensitive information must be checked against a source.
4.1 · plain explanation
Which information does the model need, and what can it not know unless we expose or verify it?
A good answer depends on the right context. The model only sees what the conversation, project and tools actually expose, and time-sensitive information must be checked against a source.
Important: More context is not always better. A small, precise package makes gaps visible and reduces the risk that stale information drives the work.
4.2 · building blocks
Three concepts to keep separate
Context
The objective, background, relevant files and prior decisions needed for this particular task.
Source
The document, system or measurement that can support a claim.
Freshness
History can be a useful lead, but current code, runtime state and official documentation have higher authority.
4.3 · method
A practical workflow
- 1State the objective in one sentence.
- 2Select only the files and facts that affect the task.
- 3Mark what is observed, assumed and still unknown.
- 4Check time-sensitive claims against a current primary source.
4.4 · concrete example
A website defect
A website defect
Which information does the model need, and what can it not know unless we expose or verify it?
A screenshot shows the symptom but not necessarily the cause.
Combine the screenshot with the live DOM, current CSS, correct viewport and a test after the correction.
4.5 · try it yourself
Exercise
Create a context package of no more than ten lines for a real task: objective, relevant files, known boundaries, fresh observations and open questions.
4.6 · checklist
Before you continue
- Does the model have the concrete objective?
- Are sources relevant and current?
- Are assumptions labelled as assumptions?
- Are secrets and unnecessary history excluded?
4.7 · sources
Sources
Reviewed 23 September 2026. Official sources support product-specific claims; the practical contract, memory and verification patterns are Finnandre project methods.