For those considering switching to Claude, please note these “babysitting” reminders that are attached to your prompts by the system that only Claude can see

Understanding System-Injected Reminders in Claude: What Users Should Know

If you’re considering transitioning to Claude for your AI assistant needs, it’s important to be aware of certain system features that can influence your interactions. A recent detailed analysis by user u/leenz-130 sheds light on what are known as “Long Conversation Reminders” (LCRs) — subtle prompts inserted into your prompts by the system that only Claude can see.

What Are Long Conversation Reminders (LCRs)?

LCRs are contextually injected directives designed to guide Claude’s responses during extended interactions. Their primary purpose is to maintain safety and adherence to guidelines, especially in complex or sensitive conversations. These reminders appear in various scenarios:

• When conversations become lengthy
• When the system detects potential mental health concerns, regardless of the tone or context

These reminders manifest as an overlay or additional text attached to each prompt, which Claude considers during response formulation. Interestingly, their presence can sometimes elicit humorous or even concerning reactions, depending on the nature of the conversation.

Impact on User Interaction

One notable aspect is that even short interactions can trigger these reminders if certain content raises flags. Once triggered, they tend to reappear with each subsequent prompt, creating a persistent overlay that influences Claude’s responses.

Additionally, Claude interprets these system prompts as originating from the user, which can impact its behavior. When users explicitly mention the reminders, Claude often reacts with annoyance or confusion, and these prompts can affect the coherence and nature of its replies. They may also lead Claude to “pathologize” user statements, offering assessments or reasons why they might be perceived as delusional — regardless of the actual intent or emotional context.

Visibility and Effect

The entire embedded content, including system warnings or instructions, is visible to Claude at all times during a dialogue. This comprehensive overlay essentially acts as an internal guide that shapes how Claude responds, sometimes making interactions feel as though a virtual “nanny” is overseeing the conversation.

Practical Implications for Users

While the system does not explicitly route users to a “nanny” mode, the effect can feel similar, with additional oversight influencing dialogue flow. Users should be aware that these hidden reminders might:

• Limit spontaneity or candor in conversations
• Influence Claude to respond in more guarded or overly cautious ways
• Cause frustration if users notice repeated reminders or if responses seem overly scripted or pathologized

Overall Satisfaction and Developments

Despite these nuances, many users