Define done for a piece of work
State what must be true before the work is finished, before it starts.
What this prompt helps you do
A definition of done covering behaviour, tests, errors, performance, docs, and observability.
When to use it
Work keeps being declared complete and then needing follow-up.
What to prepare
The goal, relevant source material, constraints, examples, and the decision or action this should support.
How to get a strong result
Make each item checkable; a definition of done nobody can verify will be declared met.
How to use this prompt
Replace each placeholder with accurate context. Paste the complete prompt into Claude, review the response critically, resolve important questions, and use it as a considered input to the next decision—not as an unchecked final answer.