Algorithmic Command Enforcement

Overview

Agents follow algorithmic decision trees (100% compliance) better than imperative instructions (0-33% compliance), even with MUST/DELETE language. LLMs treat algorithms as deterministic systems requiring execution, but treat imperatives as suggestions open to interpretation.

Core principle: Stop writing imperatives. Start writing algorithms.

When to Use

Use algorithmic format when:

• Discipline-enforcing workflows (TDD, code review, verification)
• High compliance required (no acceptable bypass cases)
• Agents are under pressure (time, authority, sunk cost, exhaustion)
• Multiple escape hatches exist (simplicity, pragmatism, efficiency)
• Cost of non-compliance is high (technical debt, bugs, process violations)
• Decision is binary (yes/no question, not judgment call)