CursorAI is smart, but sometimes its code suggestions don’t match your style or team standards. Until built-in rule enforcement arrives, there’s a simple manual workaround: use a project-level rules file.
🛠️ The Workaround: Add a Contextual Rules File
CursorAI reads your codebase for context—including documentation. You can guide its behavior by adding a Markdown file (e.g. .prompt-rules.md
) in your project root.
📁 Step-by-Step
1. Create .prompt-rules.md
Place this in your project root (next to package.json
, README.md
, etc.).
2. Add Your Coding Guidelines
Write clear, readable rules—like you're instructing a teammate.
Example:
# CursorAI Prompt Rules
1. Use TypeScript with strict typing.
2. React components must be functional.
3. No `any`; use union types or generics.
4. Prefer async/await over Promises.
5. Follow Airbnb JavaScript Style Guide.
6. Add inline comments for complex logic.
7. Avoid inline CSS—use styled-components.
8. Keep functions under 40 lines.
✅ Why It Works
CursorAI scans all project files for context.
It uses this file as silent guidance.
Works for suggestions, explanations, and refactors.
🚫 Limitations
Not strict enforcement (like ESLint).
Doesn’t reject rule-breaking suggestions.
Requires you to maintain it.
📌 TL;DR
Drop a .prompt-rules.md in your project with your coding standards. CursorAI will read it and tailor suggestions accordingly.
Simple. Effective. No plugins needed.
Top comments (0)