Soul File
A plain-language file that defines an agent's identity: its name, voice, job, and rules. It is a friendly name for a rich system prompt.
It is the moment an agent stops being a something and becomes a someone. Change it and the agent changes.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a soul file and a system prompt?
A soul file is really a friendly name for a rich system prompt: the plain-language document that defines an agent's name, voice, job, and rules. The term just captures that it reads less like code and more like a character description.
Can I change how my agent behaves by editing its soul file?
Yes. The soul file is where the agent's identity and guardrails live, so changing it changes the agent's personality, tone, and boundaries. It is the moment an assistant stops being a something and becomes a someone.
Do I need to know how to code to write a soul file?
No. A soul file is written in plain language, describing who the agent is and how it should act, which is exactly why the friendly name caught on. The skill is clear writing, not programming.
New to all this? Start with what an AI agent really is, browse the full glossary, or explore the learning hub.
← Back to the glossary