From 523c7120b8c135d633efba767bcd14c1dda47da9 Mon Sep 17 00:00:00 2001 From: null Date: Sat, 11 Jul 2026 17:09:05 -0500 Subject: [PATCH] review --- ...N_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md | 20 +- ...ELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md.md | 84 - seed/questions/QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md | 1830 +++++++++++++---- 3 files changed, 1427 insertions(+), 507 deletions(-) delete mode 100644 seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md.md diff --git a/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md b/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md index 81c52a0c..fcb60921 100644 --- a/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md +++ b/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md @@ -1,4 +1,4 @@ -# Fun Relationship Questions Research Notes v1 +# Fun Relationship Questions Research Notes v2 This research note updates the Closer daily question guides after reviewing modern couple apps, conversation-card games, date-night question lists, and relationship research summaries. @@ -64,3 +64,21 @@ Copy these patterns: * GQ on Esther Perel's conversation game: https://www.gq.com/story/esther-perel-card-game * Verywell Mind spicy questions: https://www.verywellmind.com/spicy-conversation-starters-8737188 * Partnership through Play research: https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.09509 + +## Gap Found After v6 + +The v6 guide improved fun, but still left two gaps. + +First, it did not force patch discipline strongly enough. A writer could mark a few weak questions and then rewrite far more than needed. Future guide versions must require `fix_marked_ids_only` unless a mass rewrite exception is documented. + +Second, it did not clearly separate fun from random. A pack can avoid therapy voice but drift into snack overload, fake award overload, or childish nonsense. Future daily packs must stay playful and adult, not random for its own sake. + +## Added In v7 + +* Patch mode is required by default. +* Passing questions must stay frozen. +* Mass rewrites require a documented over-60-percent shared failure. +* Every marked question needs a fix scope. +* Fun but grounded is now a gate. +* The option answer test is now required. +* Remaining hard flags must be 0 before production-ready. diff --git a/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md.md b/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md.md deleted file mode 100644 index fcb60921..00000000 --- a/seed/questions/FUN_RELATIONSHIP_QUESTIONS_RESEARCH_NOTES.md.md +++ /dev/null @@ -1,84 +0,0 @@ -# Fun Relationship Questions Research Notes v2 - -This research note updates the Closer daily question guides after reviewing modern couple apps, conversation-card games, date-night question lists, and relationship research summaries. - -## Main Takeaway - -Fun relationship questions work when they feel like a small playable moment. - -They are not just "warm prompts". They use choice, humor, tiny missions, preferences, memories, flirtation, and low-pressure honesty. - -## What Good Examples Have in Common - -* They are quick to answer. -* They create a tiny story or choice. -* They ask about favorites, memories, date ideas, silly preferences, attraction, or what sounds good now. -* They give permission to be playful, weird, honest, or flirty. -* They avoid sounding like therapy unless the product is clearly built for therapy. -* They do not make the relationship feel like work. - -## What Closer Should Copy As A Pattern - -Do not copy outside questions. - -Copy these patterns: - -* "Would you rather" choices -* fake awards -* tiny missions -* snack drafts -* date-night picks -* silly debates -* comfort-show or music choices -* flirty low-pressure picks -* first memory or favorite memory prompts -* small adventure choices -* "what should we try tonight" prompts - -## What Closer Should Avoid - -* chores pretending to be romance -* bedtime logistics -* household admin -* therapy words -* generic wellness phrasing -* vague answers like "quality time" -* awkward domestic answers like "the good blanket saved" -* options that do not all answer the same prompt - -## Specific Guide Changes Made - -* Added a research-informed fun rules section. -* Added required daily game mechanics. -* Added stronger option checks. -* Added a research pass before writing daily packs. -* Added a second sample gate requiring 8 of 10 sampled questions per weekday to feel fun, sweet, flirty, silly, date-like, or game-like. -* Added metadata fields for `content_policy` and `research_note`. - -## Sources Reviewed - -* Paired: https://www.paired.com/ -* Gottman Love Maps: https://www.gottman.com/blog/the-sound-relationship-house-build-love-maps/ -* Teen Vogue couples questions: https://www.teenvogue.com/story/145-questions-for-couples-that-are-always-worth-asking -* Guardian on conversation cards: https://www.theguardian.com/wellness/2024/feb/23/conversation-starters-card-games -* GQ on Esther Perel's conversation game: https://www.gq.com/story/esther-perel-card-game -* Verywell Mind spicy questions: https://www.verywellmind.com/spicy-conversation-starters-8737188 -* Partnership through Play research: https://arxiv.org/abs/2505.09509 - -## Gap Found After v6 - -The v6 guide improved fun, but still left two gaps. - -First, it did not force patch discipline strongly enough. A writer could mark a few weak questions and then rewrite far more than needed. Future guide versions must require `fix_marked_ids_only` unless a mass rewrite exception is documented. - -Second, it did not clearly separate fun from random. A pack can avoid therapy voice but drift into snack overload, fake award overload, or childish nonsense. Future daily packs must stay playful and adult, not random for its own sake. - -## Added In v7 - -* Patch mode is required by default. -* Passing questions must stay frozen. -* Mass rewrites require a documented over-60-percent shared failure. -* Every marked question needs a fix scope. -* Fun but grounded is now a gate. -* The option answer test is now required. -* Remaining hard flags must be 0 before production-ready. diff --git a/seed/questions/QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md b/seed/questions/QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md index 04710e7f..483d3f19 100644 --- a/seed/questions/QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md +++ b/seed/questions/QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md @@ -1,511 +1,1497 @@ -# Closer Question Writing Guide v8 +# Closer Question Content Guide -## Mission +## Purpose -Closer is not a questionnaire. +This guide defines how Closer question packs should be written, reviewed, and validated. -Closer is not therapy homework. +Closer is a private couples app. The questions should help two people feel closer through honest, warm, simple conversation. The app should not sound robotic, clinical, cheesy, judgmental, or like therapy homework. -Closer is not a personality quiz. +Use this guide before writing or rewriting any question JSON file. -Closer should feel like a conversation game couples voluntarily keep playing because they are having fun. +--- -Every question should move the couple toward at least one of these: +# 1. The Closer Voice -* laughing -* flirting -* learning something new -* remembering something -* planning something together -* feeling understood -* feeling appreciated -* creating a future memory +Closer should sound: -If a question does none of those things, delete it. +- warm +- private +- plainspoken +- emotionally honest +- lightly playful when appropriate +- easy to answer +- respectful of both partners +- safe and non-pressuring -## Consumer First +Closer should not sound: -Every question must pass this test: +- robotic +- overly formal +- fake-deep +- preachy +- judgmental +- clinical +- like a therapist worksheet +- like a corporate wellness app +- sexually pushy +- repetitive +- awkwardly generated + +## Voice rule + +A good Closer question should sound like something a real person could comfortably ask their partner. + +Bad: ```text -Would a real couple willingly answer this on a Friday night? +What boundary around money boundaries would help you feel respected? ``` -If not, rewrite it. - -Never write for psychologists. - -Write for normal couples. - -## Product Standard - -Closer should feel premium. - -Every category should feel handwritten by an experienced relationship coach and game designer, not generated by AI. - -If a user can predict the next question, the category fails. - -## Standard Question Mix - -Standard 250 question packs should use this mix: - -| Type | Count | -|---|---:| -| multi_choice | 140 | -| single_choice | 50 | -| scale | 35 | -| this_or_that | 15 | -| written | 10 | - -At least 76 percent must be choice based. - -Typing should feel rare and meaningful. - -Special packs may override this mix only when the override is documented in the pack metadata and in `QUESTION_REWRITE_PLAN.md`. - -## Emotional Mix - -Each standard category should roughly contain: - -* 35 percent playful -* 25 percent everyday relationship -* 20 percent meaningful -* 10 percent future focused -* 10 percent deeper vulnerability - -Never stack several heavy questions together. - -Daily packs should lean more playful, fun, sweet, and low pressure than standard category packs. - -## Conversation Goals - -Every question should create at least one of these reactions: - -* "I did not know that." -* "That is adorable." -* "We should actually do that." -* "I cannot believe you picked that." -* "I never thought about that." -* "That is a really good point." - -If none apply, rewrite it. - -## Daily Single Choice Voice Standard - -Daily questions are different from normal category packs. - -They should feel like small couples game moments. - -They should sound like two people deciding what to do, eat, watch, laugh about, try, flirt with, or enjoy together today. - -Daily questions should be: - -* quick -* warm -* concrete -* playful -* fun before merely useful -* game-like -* easy to answer in under 10 seconds -* relationship focused -* doable in normal life - -Daily questions should not sound like: - -* therapy homework -* self-help worksheets -* HR wellness surveys -* abstract emotional processing -* generic AI relationship advice -* household admin -* bedtime logistics -* chore planning - -If the question sounds like a couples counselor wrote it, rewrite it. - -If the question sounds like roommates managing a house, rewrite it. - -## Daily Fun Gate - -A daily question passes only if it creates at least one of these: - -* a smile -* a laugh -* a flirt -* a cute choice -* a tiny date idea -* a playful debate -* a small memory -* a small thing the couple might actually try tonight - -Warm is not enough. Concrete is not enough. Useful is not enough. - -Ask this before approving any daily question: +Better: ```text -Would this feel fun, sweet, or playful inside the app tonight? +What money boundary would help you feel more respected? ``` -If the honest answer is "useful, but not fun", rewrite it. - - -## Research-Informed Fun Rules - -Recent relationship-question products and articles point to the same pattern: the strongest prompts feel like a game first, then create connection as a side effect. Paired markets quick, fun check-ins and says the relationship should not feel like work. Conversation-card coverage emphasizes that cards give people permission to skip small talk and reveal something interesting. Date-night and couples-question lists work best when they use preferences, memories, flirty choices, funny hypotheticals, tiny adventures, and low-pressure honesty. - -Use this as the daily pack standard: - -* Game first, insight second. -* A question should create a choice, mini-mission, playful debate, flirt, memory, or laugh. -* Avoid questions that only ask users to manage the relationship better. -* Avoid questions that sound like advice, coaching, therapy, or household planning. -* Ask about wants, favorites, memories, tiny plans, silly preferences, and sweet attention. -* For flirty or spicy prompts, start light, keep it consent-based, and never make the user feel cornered. -* For deeper prompts, make them feel like a game card, not a therapy intake form. - -A daily question should answer at least one of these: - -* What would be fun to choose right now? -* What would be cute to try tonight? -* What would make us laugh? -* What would make us flirt a little? -* What would help us learn a tiny new thing about each other? -* What would create a small shared memory? - -If the answer is only "this would be responsible", reject it. Adults already have bills. The app does not need to become another one. - - -## Daily Game Mechanics - -Every daily question should use at least one clear game mechanic. - -Preferred mechanics: - -* Would-you-rather style choice -* Fake award -* Tiny mission -* Mini date pick -* Snack draft -* Silly bet -* Guilty-pleasure pick -* Memory pick -* Flirty pick -* Compliment choice -* Photo challenge -* One-song challenge -* Mystery treat -* Cute dare, kept low pressure -* "Choose our vibe" for the next hour - -Do not overuse one mechanic. A full weekday should not feel like 70 versions of the same snack question wearing different socks. - -### Option Quality Standard - -Daily options should be: - -* vivid enough to picture -* short enough to tap quickly -* similar in effort -* similar in emotional weight -* tied to the prompt -* fun, sweet, flirty, silly, or date-like - -Avoid vague options like: - -* Something sweet -* A cute moment -* More connection -* Better communication -* Quality time - -Avoid weird domestic options like: - -* The good blanket saved -* A clean counter -* A bedtime plan -* Dishes handled -* The laundry moved - -Better option style: - -* A two-song kitchen dance -* A dessert walk -* A ridiculous fake award -* A flirty text from across the room -* A corner-store snack hunt -* A couch movie trailer voice - -## Daily Option Direction - -Prefer daily options like: - -* snacks -* tiny dates -* silly bets -* inside jokes -* couch games -* music picks -* mini adventures -* playful compliments -* low-pressure flirting -* cozy but fun moments -* small surprises -* dramatic fake awards -* guilty-pleasure shows -* cute photos -* dessert runs -* short walks with a purpose - -Avoid daily options centered on: - -* bills -* laundry -* dishes -* clean counters -* errands -* appointments -* calendars -* bedtime planning -* household maintenance -* saved blankets -* clinical reassurance phrasing - -These can exist in real relationships. They should not dominate the daily fun pack. - -## Banned Daily Tone Words - -Avoid these in daily questions: - -* reset -* process -* mental load -* emotional load -* autopilot -* pressure -* soft landing -* relationship dynamic -* name the mood -* emotional processing -* communication style -* conflict framework - -These are not banned from every serious category forever, but they should almost never appear in daily questions. - -## Daily Good vs Bad - -Good daily question: +Best: ```text -What tiny date move sounds best tonight? +What is one money habit we could agree on that would make things feel calmer between us? ``` -Good options: +--- -* Dessert on the couch -* A two-song kitchen dance -* A short walk with snacks -* A ridiculous movie pick +# 2. Core Writing Standard -Bad daily question: +Every question should pass this test: + +```bat +ECHO Would a real couple actually answer this? +ECHO Is it clear in one read? +ECHO Does it sound natural out loud? +ECHO Does it invite honesty without blaming either partner? +ECHO Does it fit the pack topic? +ECHO Does it avoid sounding like AI generated filler? +``` + +If the answer is no, rewrite it. + +--- + +# 3. Product Goal + +Questions should create moments like: ```text -Before phones win, what would make the night nicer? +Oh, that is easy to answer. +That actually sounds like us. +I never thought to ask that. +That feels safe to say. +That could start a good conversation. +That makes me want to see my partner's answer. ``` -Bad options: +Questions should not create moments like: -* A clean counter -* A quick shoulder rub -* A simple bedtime plan -* The good blanket saved +```text +What does this even mean? +Why is this worded so strangely? +This feels like therapy homework. +This sounds too intense. +This sounds too sexual too fast. +This feels repetitive. +This makes me feel accused. +``` -Why it fails: +--- -* too much household admin -* not playful enough -* one option is weirdly phrased -* it does not feel like a couples game +# 4. Category Purpose -## Daily Single Choice Weekday Lineup +Every pack needs a clear purpose. -This is a special daily pack, not a standard 250 question category pack. +Before writing a pack, define: -Target counts: +```bat +SET PACK_NAME= +SET PACK_PURPOSE= +SET USER_FEELING= +SET RELATIONSHIP_OUTCOME= +SET FREE_VALUE= +SET PREMIUM_VALUE= +``` -* 500 total -* 75 free -* 425 premium -* 500 single_choice +Example: -Weekday themes: +```bat +SET PACK_NAME=Date Night +SET PACK_PURPOSE=Help couples plan, enjoy, and remember time together. +SET USER_FEELING=Playful, wanted, relaxed, connected. +SET RELATIONSHIP_OUTCOME=More intentional time together without pressure. +SET FREE_VALUE=Easy, fun, low-pressure date questions. +SET PREMIUM_VALUE=Deeper romance, planning preferences, rut-breaking, and memory-making prompts. +``` -* Monday: Mood Check Monday -* Tuesday: Tiny Win Tuesday -* Wednesday: Real One Wednesday -* Thursday: Laugh It Off Thursday -* Friday: Flirty Friday -* Saturday: Side Quest Saturday -* Sunday: Slow Burn Sunday +--- -See `DAILY_SINGLE_CHOICE_WEEKDAY_SYSTEM.md` for full theme rules. +# 5. Question Depth Levels -## Daily Voice Enforcement +Use depth intentionally. -The daily weekday pack must use a review loop, not a one-pass bulk rewrite. +## Light -Daily questions must be written in small batches, reviewed, marked, fixed, and reviewed again before scaling. - -A daily question is not approved until: - -* the prompt sounds natural out loud -* the options cleanly answer the prompt -* the wording is concrete, not abstract -* the question feels like a game moment -* the question feels fun, sweet, playful, flirty, or date-like -* the theme is clear without sounding forced - -If the question passes JSON validation but sounds weird when read out loud, it fails. - -If the question is useful but not fun, it fails. - -## Daily Patch Discipline - -Daily pack updates must not become blind rewrites. - -Review the full pack first. Mark only the questions that fail. Fix only those marked IDs. - -Do not rewrite passing questions because the pack is being updated. - -Passing questions are frozen unless they later fail one of the daily rules. - -Normal content fixes should preserve metadata and change only the prompt and options. - -A mass rewrite is allowed only if more than 60 percent of a weekday or pack fails for the same root cause, and the review report explains why patching is worse. - -## Fun But Grounded - -Daily questions should be fun, but not random. - -Reject questions that become silly noise instead of a usable couple moment. - -Watch for overuse of: - -* snack drafts -* fake awards -* couch games -* mascot jokes -* random object choices -* dramatic bits -* cute phrases that do not match the prompt - -A daily pack should feel like a relationship game for adults. - -It should not feel like chore bingo, therapy homework, or a children's party game wearing a couples-app badge. - -## Option Answer Test - -Every option must cleanly answer the prompt. - -Read the prompt and then each option as a sentence fragment. If the option sounds grammatically or logically wrong, fix it. - -If one option fails, fix the option. If two or more fail, rewrite the whole answer set. +Light questions should be easy, fun, and low-pressure. Examples: -Bad: +```text +What is a simple date we could do with almost no planning? +What snack would make a movie night feel complete? +Would you rather go out for dessert or stay in with a blanket? +``` + +## Medium + +Medium questions should reveal preferences, needs, feelings, or patterns. + +Examples: ```text -Which tiny date move fits after dinner? -Choosing the fun mug +What makes a night together feel special instead of routine? +What helps you feel like I really want to spend time with you? +What is one thing that would make date night easier for us to follow through on? +``` + +## Deep + +Deep questions should invite vulnerability without pressure or blame. + +Examples: + +```text +When have you felt most wanted by me, and what made it feel that way? +What kind of attention from me makes you feel closest? +What do you miss about the way we used to spend time together? +``` + +## Depth rules + +```bat +ECHO Light questions should not feel shallow or useless. +ECHO Medium questions should not feel like a confrontation. +ECHO Deep questions should not feel like a trap. +ECHO Sensitive questions should never pressure a partner to disclose, forgive, explain, or perform. +``` + +--- + +# 6. Question Types + +Each question type should have a purpose. + +## written + +Use for stories, memories, reflection, emotional honesty, and open-ended answers. + +Good written examples: + +```text +What is one small thing I do that makes you feel cared for? +What is a memory of us that still makes you smile? +What is something you wish we made more time for? +``` + +Avoid written questions that are too vague: + +```text +How can we deepen our connection? ``` Better: ```text -Which tiny date move fits after dinner? -A two-song kitchen dance +What is one thing we could do this week that would make us feel more like a team? +``` + +--- + +## single_choice + +Use for preferences and simple decisions. + +Good single-choice example: + +```json +{ + "type": "single_choice", + "text": "Which kind of date sounds best this week?", + "options": [ + { "id": "cozy_at_home", "text": "Cozy at home" }, + { "id": "dinner_out", "text": "Dinner out" }, + { "id": "something_playful", "text": "Something playful" }, + { "id": "something_outside", "text": "Something outside" }, + { "id": "surprise_me", "text": "Surprise me" } + ] +} +``` + +Rules: + +```bat +ECHO Options should be short. +ECHO Options should not overlap too much. +ECHO Options should sound like real choices. +ECHO Avoid more than 6 options unless truly needed. +``` + +--- + +## multi_choice + +Use when more than one answer can be true. + +Good multi-choice example: + +```json +{ + "type": "multi_choice", + "text": "What helps you feel relaxed on a date with me?", + "options": [ + { "id": "no_rushing", "text": "Not feeling rushed" }, + { "id": "phones_away", "text": "Putting phones away" }, + { "id": "good_food", "text": "Good food" }, + { "id": "easy_conversation", "text": "Easy conversation" }, + { "id": "physical_affection", "text": "Physical affection" }, + { "id": "clear_plan", "text": "Having a plan" } + ] +} +``` + +Rules: + +```bat +ECHO Multi-choice prompts should say or imply that multiple answers are okay. +ECHO Options should not shame either partner. +ECHO Include practical and emotional options when possible. +``` + +--- + +## scale + +Use for comfort level, closeness, energy, readiness, satisfaction, or frequency. + +Good scale example: + +```json +{ + "type": "scale", + "text": "How much do you feel like we need a real date soon?", + "scale": { + "min": 1, + "max": 5, + "min_label": "Not much", + "max_label": "Very much" + } +} +``` + +Rules: + +```bat +ECHO Scale labels should be gentle and neutral. +ECHO Do not make the low end sound bad or shameful. +ECHO Scale questions should measure one thing only. ``` Bad: ```text -What should we do for fun before phones win? -A bedtime plan +How badly are we failing at making time for each other? ``` Better: ```text -What should we do for fun before phones win? -Trade dramatic compliments +How much would some intentional time together help us right now? ``` -## General Tone Rules +--- -Avoid robotic openings: +## this_or_that -* Describe -* Reflect on -* Discuss -* Evaluate -* In what ways -* How satisfied are you -* Explore your feelings -* Identify the ways +Use for fast, playful, low-pressure choices. -Use normal human wording. +Good this-or-that examples: + +```text +Planned date or spontaneous date? +Dress up or stay cozy? +Cook together or order in? +Sunset walk or late-night drive? +``` + +Rules: + +```bat +ECHO This-or-that prompts should be quick. +ECHO Avoid choices that imply one partner is wrong. +ECHO Best used in fun, date, intimacy, home, and lifestyle packs. +``` + +--- + +# 7. Free vs Premium Strategy + +Free questions should prove the app is worth using. + +Premium questions should feel deeper, more specific, more personalized, more playful, or more valuable. + +## Free questions should be: + +```bat +ECHO Easy to answer. +ECHO Warm and useful. +ECHO Good enough to create trust. +ECHO Low-pressure. +ECHO Representative of the pack. +``` + +## Premium questions should be: + +```bat +ECHO More specific. +ECHO More thoughtful. +ECHO More emotionally useful. +ECHO More creative. +ECHO More likely to start a meaningful conversation. +``` + +Premium must not be only “more of the same.” + +Bad premium strategy: + +```text +Free: What date sounds fun? +Premium: What date sounds really fun? +``` + +Better premium strategy: + +```text +Free: What is a simple date we could do this week? +Premium: What kind of date would make you feel pursued, not just scheduled? +``` + +--- + +# 8. Banned or Overused Phrases + +Avoid these unless there is a very good reason. + +```text +What boundary around... +hold space +emotional container +relationship dynamic +intentional intimacy +deepen our connection +in this season +needs met +love language +safe space +show up for you +lean into +create space for +feel seen and heard +navigate conflict +honor your needs +``` + +These phrases are not always wrong, but they quickly make the app sound generic or clinical. + +Use natural language instead. + +Instead of: + +```text +How can I hold space for your needs? +``` + +Use: + +```text +When you are having a hard day, what helps you feel supported by me? +``` + +Instead of: + +```text +How can we deepen intentional intimacy? +``` + +Use: + +```text +What is one small thing that makes you want to be closer to me? +``` + +--- + +# 9. Tone Rules by Pack Type + +## Fun packs + +Should feel light, playful, and easy. + +Use: + +```text +What is a tiny adventure we could do without spending much? +What inside joke of ours still makes you laugh? +What would make an ordinary night feel more fun? +``` + +Avoid: + +```text +How can we optimize shared leisure experiences? +``` + +--- + +## Date Night packs + +Should feel romantic, playful, practical, and low-pressure. + +Use: + +```text +What kind of date would feel easy but still special? +What would make you feel like I planned the night with you in mind? +What is one date we keep talking about but never actually do? +``` + +Avoid: + +```text +What date structure would best support our connection goals? +``` + +--- + +## Boundaries packs + +Should feel respectful, calm, and non-accusing. + +Use: + +```text +What is one thing you wish we handled more gently? +When you need alone time, what helps you feel understood instead of distant? +What is a small boundary that would make our home feel calmer? +``` + +Avoid: + +```text +What boundary around boundaries would support emotional safety? +``` + +--- + +## Conflict packs + +Should feel safe, repair-focused, and not blaming. + +Use: + +```text +When we disagree, what helps you stay open instead of shutting down? +What is one thing I can do during an argument that would help us slow down? +What helps you feel like we are on the same team again? +``` + +Avoid: + +```text +What do I always do wrong during conflict? +``` + +--- + +## Trust packs + +Should feel careful, honest, and non-punishing. + +Use: + +```text +What small action helps you trust me more? +What makes an apology feel real to you? +What helps you feel reassured without feeling like you had to ask too much? +``` + +Avoid: + +```text +What have I done to make you unable to trust me? +``` + +--- + +## Sex, desire, and physical intimacy packs + +Should feel adult, consent-based, respectful, optional, and never pushy. + +Use: + +```text +What kind of affection helps you feel wanted without feeling pressured? +What helps you feel comfortable talking about desire with me? +What is one way I can make physical closeness feel safer and more relaxed? +``` + +Avoid: + +```text +What should I do to make sure you give me more sex? +What fantasy do you have to tell me tonight? +Why do you not want me more? +``` + +Sensitive packs should include: + +```bat +ECHO Consent-first wording. +ECHO No pressure. +ECHO No shame. +ECHO No assumptions about gender roles. +ECHO No assumptions about sex drive. +ECHO No coercive language. +ECHO No questions that pressure disclosure of trauma. +``` + +--- + +# 10. Safety Rules + +Closer is not therapy, counseling, crisis support, or medical advice. + +Questions must not: + +```bat +ECHO Encourage staying in unsafe relationships. +ECHO Pressure forgiveness. +ECHO Minimize abuse. +ECHO Encourage sexual pressure. +ECHO Ask users to disclose trauma before they are ready. +ECHO Diagnose a partner. +ECHO Tell a partner what they owe. +ECHO Encourage monitoring, control, or isolation. +``` + +## Abuse-sensitive rule + +Avoid questions that frame controlling behavior as a normal boundary. + +Bad: + +```text +What rule should we have about who your partner can talk to? +``` Better: ```text -What tiny date move sounds best tonight? +What helps you feel secure in our relationship while still respecting each other's independence? ``` -Worse: +## Consent rule + +Bad: ```text -In what ways could we improve our relational connection this evening? +How can I get you to be more physically affectionate? ``` -## Option Rules +Better: -For choice questions: +```text +What kind of affection feels good to you when you are open to closeness? +``` -* options must answer the exact prompt -* options must be similar in weight -* options must not overlap too much -* options must not shame either partner -* options must sound like real choices -* options should be short +--- -Reject answer sets where one option is obviously the "correct" healthy answer and the rest are fake. +# 11. Wording Rules -## Written Question Rules +## Keep questions short -Written questions must earn the keyboard. +Aim for 8 to 22 words when possible. -Use written questions only for: +Long questions are okay only when the topic needs softness or context. -* memories -* appreciation -* future plans -* short stories -* meaningful personal answers +## Ask one thing at a time -Do not use written questions for basic preferences. +Bad: -## Final Content Test +```text +What boundary do you need around family, money, friends, work, and rest so you feel loved and respected? +``` -Before shipping a pack, read random questions out loud. +Better: -Reject anything that sounds like: +```text +What family boundary would make our relationship feel more protected? +``` -* AI filler -* therapy homework -* a survey -* a worksheet -* household admin -* a chore list -* an app trying too hard to be deep +## Avoid stacked emotional words -Closer questions should make couples want to keep tapping. +Bad: + +```text +What would help you feel safe, seen, valued, loved, respected, and emotionally connected? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What helps you feel respected by me? +``` + +## Avoid vague “more” questions + +Bad: + +```text +How can we be more connected? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What is one thing we could do tonight to feel closer? +``` + +## Avoid blame + +Bad: + +```text +What do I do that makes date night feel bad? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What tends to make date night harder for you to enjoy? +``` + +--- + +# 12. JSON Quality Rules + +Every JSON file should pass these checks. + +```bat +ECHO [ ] Valid JSON. +ECHO [ ] Category id matches file purpose. +ECHO [ ] Category title sounds user-facing. +ECHO [ ] Category access matches actual free/premium strategy. +ECHO [ ] Metadata counts match actual question counts. +ECHO [ ] All question IDs are unique. +ECHO [ ] All question texts are unique. +ECHO [ ] No near-duplicate blocks. +ECHO [ ] Type counts match metadata. +ECHO [ ] Free/premium counts match metadata. +ECHO [ ] Depth values are valid. +ECHO [ ] Access values are valid. +ECHO [ ] Options have unique IDs inside each question. +ECHO [ ] Option IDs are neutral and clean. +ECHO [ ] Scale labels are present when needed. +ECHO [ ] No malformed keys like m a x _ l e n g t h. +ECHO [ ] No placeholder text. +ECHO [ ] No accidental old gendered IDs unless intentionally used. +``` + +Recommended access values: + +```text +free +premium +``` + +Recommended category access values: + +```text +free +premium +mixed +``` + +Recommended depth values: + +```text +light +medium +deep +``` + +Recommended question types: + +```text +written +single_choice +multi_choice +scale +this_or_that +``` + +--- + +# 13. Pack Structure Recommendation + +For a 250-question pack: + +```bat +SET TOTAL_QUESTIONS=250 +SET FREE_QUESTIONS=75 +SET PREMIUM_QUESTIONS=175 +SET WRITTEN=150 +SET SINGLE_CHOICE=40 +SET MULTI_CHOICE=20 +SET SCALE=25 +SET THIS_OR_THAT=15 +``` + +This structure is acceptable if the current app expects those counts. + +But quality matters more than exact counts. If a pack cannot support 250 good questions without filler, reduce the pack or split it. + +--- + +# 14. Required Batch Writing Workflow + +Question packs must not be written in one uninterrupted bulk-generation pass. + +The full pack may contain 250 or more questions when the product requires it, but question creation must be divided into controlled batches so quality, continuity, counts, and repetition can be reviewed throughout the work. + +## 14.1 Batch Size + +Write exactly 25 new questions per batch. + +Do not begin the next batch until the current batch has completed the required review, correction, validation, and continuity update. + +Use a smaller batch of 15–20 questions for: + +- sensitive or emotionally heavy topics +- conflict and repair +- sex, desire, or physical intimacy +- trauma-adjacent subjects +- questions requiring identity-specific targeting +- unusually complicated answer options +- packs with difficult safety or consent requirements + +Never write more than 25 new questions in one writing pass unless the task contains a documented exception approved by the product owner. + +A request to create or rewrite an entire pack is not permission to generate the whole pack in one pass. + +## 14.2 Required Files to Read Before Writing + +Before writing the first batch, read: + +1. `QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md` +2. `QUESTION_QUALITY_CHECKLIST.md` +3. `QUESTION_SCHEMA.md` +4. the target question JSON file, when it already exists +5. any pack-specific notes or rewrite instructions +6. closely related packs that may overlap in topic, wording, or mechanics +7. the current coverage map or continuation note, when work has already started + +Do not begin writing until the pack requirements and existing content are understood. + +## 14.3 Define the Pack Before Drafting + +Before creating questions, define: + +```bat +SET PACK_NAME= +SET PACK_PURPOSE= +SET USER_FEELING= +SET RELATIONSHIP_OUTCOME= +SET FREE_VALUE= +SET PREMIUM_VALUE= +SET TOTAL_QUESTIONS= +SET FREE_QUESTIONS= +SET PREMIUM_QUESTIONS= +``` + +Also define: + +- intended audience +- tone +- safety level +- question-type distribution +- depth distribution +- free/premium strategy +- subtopics +- special targeting rules +- topics to avoid +- related packs that must not be duplicated + +## 14.4 Create a Full-Pack Coverage Map + +Create a lightweight plan for the complete pack before drafting the first 25 questions. + +The coverage map should assign each planned question or ID range: + +- question ID or ID range +- question type +- free or premium access +- depth +- topic or subtopic +- intended emotional effect +- game mechanic or conversation goal +- approximate position in the pack +- special safety or targeting requirements + +The coverage map is a planning tool. It is not approval to generate every planned question at once. + +The map should make it possible to see whether the full pack will have enough variety before large amounts of content are written. + +## 14.5 Required 25-Question Loop + +Use this exact loop for every batch: + +```bat +ECHO Step 1: Review the coverage map for the next 25 IDs. +ECHO Step 2: Re-read the Critical Batch Reminder. +ECHO Step 3: Review the previous completed batch. +ECHO Step 4: Review the pack-wide repetition and continuity notes. +ECHO Step 5: Write only the next 25 questions. +ECHO Step 6: Stop generating new questions. +ECHO Step 7: Validate the batch against the schema. +ECHO Step 8: Review every question against this guide and the quality checklist. +ECHO Step 9: Read every prompt and its answer options aloud. +ECHO Step 10: Mark every failed question by ID and reason. +ECHO Step 11: Fix only the marked questions. +ECHO Step 12: Review every corrected question again. +ECHO Step 13: Confirm zero unresolved hard failures. +ECHO Step 14: Update counts, coverage, repetition notes, and the continuation note. +ECHO Step 15: Only then begin the next batch. +``` + +Do not continue into the next batch merely because the JSON parses. + +Do not silently skip the review because the first draft appears acceptable. + +## 14.6 Critical Batch Reminder + +Before writing every batch, confirm: + +```bat +ECHO Closer is a couples game, not therapy homework. +ECHO Each question should create a laugh, flirt, discovery, memory, shared plan, appreciation, or meaningful couple moment. +ECHO Questions must sound natural when read aloud. +ECHO Questions must be clear in one read. +ECHO Choice options must directly and grammatically answer the prompt. +ECHO Options must be balanced in effort, emotional weight, and intimacy. +ECHO Written questions must earn the keyboard. +ECHO Avoid repeated stems, scenarios, mechanics, jokes, and answer patterns. +ECHO Do not write filler to complete a quota. +ECHO Do not rewrite passing questions without a documented reason. +ECHO Sensitive questions must remain consent-first, optional, and non-coercive. +``` + +## 14.7 Batch Review Requirements + +Review all 25 questions individually. + +Check each question for: + +- natural human wording +- pack and category fit +- subtopic fit +- depth accuracy +- correct question type +- correct free or premium placement +- schema correctness +- prompt-to-option compatibility +- balanced answer choices +- usefulness as a couples-game moment +- appropriate emotional weight +- similarity to existing questions +- similarity to earlier batches +- repeated sentence structures +- repeated options +- repeated mechanics +- therapy, worksheet, survey, or corporate language +- household-administration or chore language when not appropriate +- pressure, blame, shame, coercion, or unsafe assumptions +- unnecessary gendering or stereotypes +- whether the question is worth paying for when marked premium + +For choice questions, read the prompt followed by each option as one sentence. + +If an option does not grammatically or logically answer the prompt, rewrite it. + +If two or more options fail, review and rewrite the full answer set rather than patching isolated words. + +## 14.8 Failure Tracking and Targeted Fixes + +Each failed question must be recorded with: + +- question ID +- failure reason +- required fix scope +- whether the prompt, options, metadata, or full question must change +- replacement or correction status +- re-review result + +Fix only failed questions. + +Do not regenerate passing questions merely to make the batch look more consistent. + +A batch is complete only when every marked failure has been corrected and re-reviewed. + +## 14.9 Fifty-Question Checkpoint + +After every two completed batches, stop and review the full set of 50 questions together. + +Check for patterns that may not be obvious inside a 25-question batch: + +- repeated opening phrases +- repeated sentence rhythms +- repeated jokes, metaphors, or scenarios +- mechanic overuse +- topic imbalance +- subtopic gaps +- depth imbalance +- type imbalance +- free/premium imbalance +- weak transitions +- clusters of heavy questions +- clusters of nearly identical questions +- option wording reused across questions +- premium questions that do not feel more valuable +- questions that belong in another pack + +Fix only IDs that fail. + +Update the coverage map, counts, repetition notes, and continuation note before writing more questions. + +## 14.10 One-Hundred-Question Context Refresh + +After every 100 completed questions: + +1. Re-read the full `QUESTION_CONTENT_GUIDE.md`. +2. Re-read `QUESTION_QUALITY_CHECKLIST.md`. +3. Re-read `QUESTION_SCHEMA.md`. +4. Review the pack definition and coverage map. +5. Review all checkpoint notes. +6. Recalculate completed and remaining counts. +7. Check whether the second half of the pack is becoming repetitive or lower quality. +8. Adjust only the unwritten coverage plan unless an existing question has a documented failure. + +Also perform this full context refresh whenever: + +- quality begins to drift +- repeated failures appear +- the work resumes in a new session +- the model loses reliable context +- requirements change +- a pack-specific note is added +- the schema changes + +## 14.11 Required Continuation Note + +At the end of every batch, create or update a concise continuation note. + +The continuation note is the source of truth when work resumes. + +It must contain: + +```text +Pack: +Target file: +Guide/schema versions used: +Completed ID range: +Next ID range: +Total completed: +Total remaining: +Type counts completed: +Type counts remaining: +Free count completed: +Premium count completed: +Free count remaining: +Premium count remaining: +Depth counts completed: +Depth counts remaining: +Subtopics already covered: +Mechanics already used: +Repeated wording to avoid: +Related-pack overlaps to avoid: +Failed IDs still unresolved: +Last checkpoint completed: +Next batch coverage: +Special safety or targeting notes: +``` + +Do not rely only on conversational memory or a temporary task list. + +When resuming work, read the continuation note before generating anything new. + +## 14.12 Session Resume Procedure + +When work continues in a new session or context: + +1. Read this guide. +2. Read the quality checklist and schema. +3. Read the target JSON. +4. Read the continuation note. +5. Verify the last completed ID. +6. Verify actual counts in the JSON instead of trusting the note blindly. +7. Review the previous 25 questions. +8. Review the next planned coverage. +9. Continue from the first unwritten or unresolved ID. + +Never restart the pack from the beginning unless explicitly instructed. + +Never overwrite completed, passing work because prior conversational context is unavailable. + +## 14.13 Existing-Pack Rewrite Workflow + +When revising an existing pack: + +1. Audit the existing pack before rewriting. +2. Mark failed IDs and reasons. +3. Group failures into batches of no more than 25 IDs. +4. Rewrite only those failed IDs. +5. Preserve passing questions, IDs, access, and metadata unless a documented correction requires a change. +6. Review each corrected batch. +7. Run a 50-question cross-check after every two correction batches. +8. Run the final full-pack audit. + +Do not mass-regenerate an existing pack by default. + +A mass rewrite is allowed only when: + +- more than 60% of the pack fails for the same root cause +- targeted correction would create more inconsistency than replacement +- the reason is documented +- the product owner has approved the exception + +Even an approved mass rewrite must still use 25-question batches. + +## 14.14 Final Full-Pack Audit + +After all planned questions have been written or corrected: + +1. Validate the complete JSON file. +2. Confirm category metadata. +3. Confirm all IDs. +4. Confirm all IDs are unique. +5. Confirm all question texts are unique. +6. Confirm total question count. +7. Confirm question-type distribution. +8. Confirm free and premium distribution. +9. Confirm depth distribution. +10. Confirm targeting fields and tags. +11. Run exact duplicate checks. +12. Run near-duplicate checks. +13. Run repeated-stem and repeated-option checks. +14. Review subtopic coverage. +15. Review emotional-depth spacing. +16. Review mechanic distribution. +17. Review free-to-premium progression. +18. Read a representative sample from every section aloud. +19. Mark every failure by ID and reason. +20. Patch only failed IDs. +21. Re-run every affected validation and review check. + +The pack may ship only when: + +```bat +ECHO The JSON parses. +ECHO Metadata counts match actual counts. +ECHO IDs are unique. +ECHO Question texts are unique. +ECHO Free/premium counts match. +ECHO Type counts match. +ECHO Depth values are valid. +ECHO Required targeting fields are valid. +ECHO No unresolved hard failures remain. +ECHO No unacceptable repetition remains. +ECHO The final sample sounds natural and enjoyable aloud. +ECHO The tone guide was followed. +``` + +## 14.15 Quality Takes Priority Over Pack Size + +A product target of 250 questions does not justify filler. + +If the topic cannot support the planned count without repetition: + +1. stop writing +2. document the repetition risk +3. identify whether the pack should be reduced or divided +4. recommend a revised count or pack split +5. wait for the product decision before adding filler + +The preferred workflow is: + +```text +Plan the whole pack. +Write 25. +Stop. +Review. +Fix. +Update continuity. +Write the next 25. +``` + +--- + +# 15. Subtopic Planning + +Each pack should have subtopics to prevent repetition. + +Example for Date Night: + +```text +easy dates +low-cost dates +at-home dates +going out +planning preferences +romance style +fun and play +food and drinks +music and movies +seasonal dates +surprises +feeling wanted +getting out of a rut +after-kids / busy life +date-night stress +memories +future date dreams +``` + +Example for Boundaries: + +```text +alone time +phone privacy +social media +family involvement +friendships +money +work time +rest +chores +home space +conflict +tone of voice +physical affection +private conversations +parenting/family roles +emotional bandwidth +plans and scheduling +personal belongings +sleep +stress +``` + +--- + +# 16. Repetition Check + +A pack fails if it has blocks like this: + +```text +What boundary around alone time would help you feel respected? +What boundary around phone privacy would help you feel respected? +What boundary around family involvement would help you feel respected? +What boundary around friendships would help you feel respected? +``` + +Instead, each question should have its own angle. + +Better: + +```text +When you need alone time, how should I respond so it does not feel personal? +What phone privacy boundary would help us feel trusted instead of watched? +How involved should family be in decisions that affect just the two of us? +What helps friendships feel healthy without making our relationship feel pushed aside? +``` + +--- + +# 17. Human Read-Aloud Test + +Before finalizing, read 25 random questions out loud. + +Reject questions that: + +```bat +ECHO Sound stiff. +ECHO Sound embarrassing for the wrong reason. +ECHO Sound like a therapy script. +ECHO Sound too much like another question. +ECHO Take too long to understand. +ECHO Would make a normal couple roll their eyes. +``` + +--- + +# 18. Claude Instructions for Rewriting JSON Packs + +When Claude rewrites a pack: + +```bat +ECHO Read the existing JSON first. +ECHO Preserve required schema unless told otherwise. +ECHO Preserve required counts unless told otherwise. +ECHO Improve wording, variety, and product feel. +ECHO Do not create repetitive template blocks. +ECHO Do not use weird phrasing. +ECHO Do not overuse therapy language. +ECHO Do not make sensitive prompts coercive. +ECHO Validate the final JSON. +ECHO Report count totals. +ECHO Report any schema changes. +``` + +Claude should not say a file is done unless: + +```bat +ECHO The JSON parses. +ECHO The counts match. +ECHO IDs are unique. +ECHO Question texts are unique. +ECHO Free/premium counts match. +ECHO Type counts match. +ECHO The tone guide was followed. +``` + +--- + +# 19. Good Question Examples by Category + +## Date Night + +```text +What is a date we could plan this month that would feel easy but special? +What makes you feel like I really wanted time with you? +What kind of date helps you relax the fastest? +What is one date we should bring back? +What would make a regular night feel romantic? +``` + +## Boundaries + +```text +When you need space, what helps you feel understood instead of distant? +What is one small boundary that would make our home feel calmer? +What topic do you wish we handled more gently? +What helps you feel trusted instead of checked up on? +What is one way we can protect our time together from outside stress? +``` + +## Communication + +```text +What helps you open up when something is bothering you? +When do you feel easiest to talk to me? +What is one thing I could say more often? +What makes a hard conversation feel safer? +What helps you know I am really listening? +``` + +## Fun + +```text +What is something silly we should do together soon? +What little adventure would make this week better? +What is an inside joke of ours that you still love? +What would make tonight feel less boring? +What is something we should try just because it sounds fun? +``` + +## Trust + +```text +What small action helps you trust me more? +What makes an apology feel real to you? +What helps you feel reassured without having to ask twice? +What is one promise that matters a lot to you? +What helps us feel like we are on the same team? +``` + +## Physical Intimacy + +```text +What kind of affection helps you feel closest to me? +When do you feel most comfortable being physically close? +What helps touch feel relaxed instead of expected? +What small affectionate habit would you like more of? +What makes cuddling or closeness feel safe and easy? +``` + +--- + +# 20. Final Standard + +A finished Closer question pack should feel: + +```text +Human. +Warm. +Private. +Clear. +Useful. +Specific. +Enjoyable. +Respectful. +Worth paying for. +``` + +If a question does not help a couple feel closer, understand each other, laugh together, plan something, repair something, or feel safer with each other, it probably does not belong in Closer. + +--- + +# 21. Fun-First Rule + +Most Closer questions should feel enjoyable to answer. + +That does not mean every question has to be silly, flirty, or light. Some packs cover serious topics like boundaries, trust, money, conflict, sex, and repair. But even serious packs should not feel like homework, interrogation, therapy intake forms, or emotional labor. + +The user should usually feel one or more of these after answering: + +```text +Interested +Amused +Comforted +Wanted +Understood +Curious +Relieved +Closer +``` + +A Closer question should avoid making users feel: + +```text +Accused +Tested +Pressured +Drained +Embarrassed in a bad way +Like they are doing therapy homework +Like they are about to start a fight +``` + +## Fun-First Balance by Pack Type + +Use this as the default balance unless the pack has a special reason to be different. + +| Pack type | Light / playful / easy | Meaningful / practical | Deeper | +|---|---:|---:|---:| +| Fun, Date Night, Home Life | 60–70% | 20–30% | 10% | +| Boundaries, Trust, Conflict | 30–40% | 40–50% | 10–20% | +| Sex, Desire, Physical Intimacy | 40–50% | 30–40% | 10–20% | +| Money, Future, Values | 35–45% | 40–50% | 10–15% | + +## Fun Does Not Mean Shallow + +A fun question can still reveal something real. + +Weak: + +```text +What is your favorite color? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What color would you pick for a room that felt like us? +``` + +Weak: + +```text +What food do you like? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What meal would instantly make a night together feel better? +``` + +Weak: + +```text +What date sounds fun? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What is a low-effort date that would still make you excited to see me? +``` + +## Serious Does Not Mean Heavy + +Even serious topics should be written in a way that feels safe and answerable. + +Too heavy: + +```text +What unresolved emotional wound affects our relationship dynamic? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What is one thing we could handle more gently with each other? +``` + +Too confrontational: + +```text +What do I do that makes you not trust me? +``` + +Better: + +```text +What small action helps you feel more secure with me? +``` + +Too clinical: + +```text +What communication structure would support healthier conflict resolution? +``` + +Better: + +```text +When we disagree, what helps us slow down before it turns into a fight? +``` + +## Fun-First Review Questions + +Before finalizing a pack, ask: + +- Would this pack feel enjoyable to open after a long day? +- Are there enough easy questions to keep users from feeling drained? +- Would a couple want to compare answers? +- Does the pack include curiosity, play, warmth, or sweetness? +- Are the deeper questions spaced out enough? +- Does the pack still feel like Closer, not therapy homework? + +If a pack feels too heavy, add more light, playful, practical, or curiosity-based questions.