Intention is the goal behind a user’s request. For an AI product, recognizing user intent means responding to the task in context—not merely producing fluent language. Defining supported intents helps align model behavior and the interface with actual user needs. section 1.1 section 5.1.3
Intent boundaries shape both the product and its safeguards:
- Gather real user questions and test whether the model handles the tasks it is meant to support. section 1.1
- Guide users toward supported requests with prompt templates, suggestions, or fixed question types; expect some requests to be complex, off topic, or misleading. section 1.1
- Set guardrails for requests the product should not fulfill, such as unauthorized investment advice. section 1.1
A request with a clear intent
“Shorten the product description and make it more playful” asks for a specific transformation. A later request to turn it into a formal press release changes the intended output and style. section 5.1.3
