How to Write a CLAUDE.md or AGENTS.md File That AI Coding Agents Actually Follow

Developers using CLAUDE.md or AGENTS.md files to guide AI coding agents often find the agents ignore their instructions, typically because the files rely on vague prose rather than concrete examples. A structured template published on DEV Community argues that replacing adjectives like 'clean code' with actual code blocks showing preferred and avoided patterns is the single most effective change a developer can make. The recommended template includes six sections: a metadata header, project context, coding conventions, testing requirements, a do-not-touch list, and a command reference. Specific details such as stack choices, architectural constraints, and named code patterns help models match behavior to real project requirements rather than defaulting to generic training data. The author emphasizes keeping conventions to three to five high-value rules to prevent the file from becoming outdated or ignored over time.