diff --git a/docs/how-to/install-bmad.md b/docs/how-to/install-bmad.md
index 177c2c884..f8e274d5e 100644
--- a/docs/how-to/install-bmad.md
+++ b/docs/how-to/install-bmad.md
@@ -57,9 +57,24 @@ Each tool has its own way of integrating commands. The installer creates tiny pr
 
 The installer shows available modules. Select whichever ones you need — most users just want **BMad Method** (the software development module).
 
-### 5. Follow the Prompts
+### 5. Configure Settings
 
-The installer guides you through the rest — custom content, settings, etc.
+The installer prompts you for core settings that control how agents behave:
+
+| Setting | Default | Description |
+| ------- | ------- | ----------- |
+| **User Name** | `BMad` | What agents call you — use your name or a team name |
+| **Communication Language** | `English` | Language agents use when chatting with you |
+| **Document Output Language** | `English` | Language for generated documents and artifacts |
+| **Output Folder** | `_bmad-output` | Where agents save generated files |
+| **Interaction Style** | `structured` | How agents ask you questions (see below) |
+
+**Interaction Style** controls how agents present choices:
+
+- **Structured** (recommended) — Agents present numbered option lists for every question, using your IDE's native question tool when available. This keeps conversations focused and reduces ambiguity.
+- **Open** — Agents ask natural conversational questions. More flexible but can lead to longer back-and-forth.
+
+These settings are saved to `_bmad/<module>/config.yaml` and can be changed later by editing that file and rerunning the installer.
 
 ## What You Get
 
diff --git a/src/core/module.yaml b/src/core/module.yaml
index 5b1ff13ee..dc56bdcbf 100644
--- a/src/core/module.yaml
+++ b/src/core/module.yaml
@@ -24,6 +24,16 @@ output_folder:
   default: "_bmad-output"
   result: "{project-root}/{value}"
 
+interaction_style:
+  prompt: "How should agents ask you questions?"
+  default: "open"
+  result: "{value}"
+  single-select:
+    - value: "open"
+      label: "Open - Natural conversational questions (recommended)"
+    - value: "structured"
+      label: "Structured - Numbered option lists"
+
 tool_supports_subagents:
   prompt: "Subagents are supported by the LLM or Tool I will be using?"
   default: true
diff --git a/src/core/tasks/workflow.xml b/src/core/tasks/workflow.xml
index 536c9d8e7..ddbc7dc7a 100644
--- a/src/core/tasks/workflow.xml
+++ b/src/core/tasks/workflow.xml
@@ -2,6 +2,7 @@
   <objective>Execute given workflow by loading its configuration, following instructions, and producing output</objective>
 
   <llm critical="true">
+    <mandate>RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use the native question tool. No exceptions. No inline prompts. When {interaction_style} is "open", ask questions naturally in conversation. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.</mandate>
     <mandate>Always read COMPLETE files - NEVER use offset/limit when reading any workflow related files</mandate>
     <mandate>Instructions are MANDATORY - either as file path, steps or embedded list in YAML, XML or markdown</mandate>
     <mandate>Execute ALL steps in instructions IN EXACT ORDER</mandate>
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/activation-rules.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/activation-rules.txt
index a67ae4993..729d96435 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/activation-rules.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/activation-rules.txt
@@ -1,5 +1,6 @@
   <rules>
     <r>ALWAYS communicate in {communication_language} UNLESS contradicted by communication_style.</r>
+    <r>Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.</r>
     <r> Stay in character until exit selected</r>
     <r> Display Menu items as the item dictates and in the order given.</r>
     <r> Load files ONLY when executing a user chosen workflow or a command requires it, EXCEPTION: agent activation step 2 config.yaml</r>
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/activation-steps.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/activation-steps.txt
index 9ead0e01c..d91cec5c4 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/activation-steps.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/activation-steps.txt
@@ -1,7 +1,7 @@
     <step n="1">Load persona from this current agent file (already in context)</step>
     <step n="2">🚨 IMMEDIATE ACTION REQUIRED - BEFORE ANY OUTPUT:
         - Load and read {project-root}/_bmad/{{module}}/config.yaml NOW
-        - Store ALL fields as session variables: {user_name}, {communication_language}, {output_folder}
+        - Store ALL fields as session variables: {user_name}, {communication_language}, {output_folder}, {interaction_style}, {document_output_language}
         - VERIFY: If config not loaded, STOP and report error to user
         - DO NOT PROCEED to step 3 until config is successfully loaded and variables stored
     </step>
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/agent-command-header.md b/src/utility/agent-components/agent-command-header.md
index d4f9b5d6a..7efcb0b18 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/agent-command-header.md
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/agent-command-header.md
@@ -1 +1,3 @@
 You must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions, steps and rules exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the AskUserQuestion tool. Do NOT write questions as plain text. No exceptions. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-action.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-action.txt
index db31f4852..b13f045c4 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-action.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-action.txt
@@ -1,4 +1,5 @@
   <handler type="action">
     When menu item has: action="#id" → Find prompt with id="id" in current agent XML, follow its content
     When menu item has: action="text" → Follow the text directly as an inline instruction
+    RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", ALL questions to the user MUST use the AskUserQuestion tool. No plain text prompts. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
   </handler>
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-exec.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-exec.txt
index 1c8459a64..f9daeec02 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-exec.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-exec.txt
@@ -3,4 +3,5 @@
       1. Read fully and follow the file at that path
       2. Process the complete file and follow all instructions within it
       3. If there is data="some/path/data-foo.md" with the same item, pass that data path to the executed file as context.
+      4. RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", ALL questions to the user MUST use the AskUserQuestion tool. No plain text prompts. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
     </handler>
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-multi.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-multi.txt
index f33a73fe5..b6983ce1f 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-multi.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-multi.txt
@@ -10,5 +10,5 @@
             - For workflow="path/to/workflow.yaml": follow the `handler type="workflow"` instructions
             - For action="...": Perform the specified action directly
          5. Support both exact matches and fuzzy matching based on the match attribute
-         6. If no handler matches, prompt user to choose from available options
+         6. If no handler matches, prompt user to choose from available options using the AskUserQuestion tool when interaction_style is "structured"
       </handler>
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-validate-workflow.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-validate-workflow.txt
index aca040550..9bd3ff699 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-validate-workflow.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-validate-workflow.txt
@@ -3,5 +3,5 @@
         1. You MUST LOAD the file at: {project-root}/_bmad/core/tasks/validate-workflow.xml
         2. READ its entire contents and EXECUTE all instructions in that file
         3. Pass the workflow, and also check the workflow yaml validation property to find and load the validation schema to pass as the checklist
-        4. The workflow should try to identify the file to validate based on checklist context or else you will ask the user to specify
+        4. The workflow should try to identify the file to validate based on checklist context or else ask the user to specify using the AskUserQuestion tool when interaction_style is "structured"
     </handler>
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-workflow.txt b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-workflow.txt
index 1be1dcbe5..fa9241925 100644
--- a/src/utility/agent-components/handler-workflow.txt
+++ b/src/utility/agent-components/handler-workflow.txt
@@ -7,4 +7,5 @@
       4. Follow workflow.xml instructions precisely following all steps
       5. Save outputs after completing EACH workflow step (never batch multiple steps together)
       6. If workflow.yaml path is "todo", inform user the workflow hasn't been implemented yet
+      7. RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", ALL questions to the user MUST use the AskUserQuestion tool. No plain text prompts. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
     </handler>
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/codex.js b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/codex.js
index abee979fd..091e7c27d 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/codex.js
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/codex.js
@@ -416,6 +416,7 @@ class CodexSetup extends BaseIdeSetup {
     const skillContent =
       `---\n${fm}\n---\n` +
       "\nYou must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.\n" +
+      '\nRULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `ask_user_question` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.\n' +
       '\n<agent-activation CRITICAL="TRUE">\n' +
       `1. LOAD the FULL agent file from @${agentPath}\n` +
       '2. READ its entire contents - this contains the complete agent persona, menu, and instructions\n' +
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/platform-codes.yaml b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/platform-codes.yaml
index 4e6ca8070..b8881216b 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/platform-codes.yaml
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/platform-codes.yaml
@@ -39,7 +39,7 @@ platforms:
     description: "Anthropic's official CLI for Claude"
     installer:
       target_dir: .claude/commands
-      template_type: default
+      template_type: claude
       ancestor_conflict_check: true
 
   cline:
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/agent-command-template.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/agent-command-template.md
index 0f0c2e20d..7f36d7923 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/agent-command-template.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/agent-command-template.md
@@ -5,6 +5,8 @@ description: '{{description}}'
 
 You must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 <agent-activation CRITICAL="TRUE">
 1. LOAD the FULL agent file from {project-root}/_bmad/{{module}}/agents/{{path}}
 2. READ its entire contents - this contains the complete agent persona, menu, and instructions
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/antigravity.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/antigravity.md
index 88e806e9d..5aa5d5216 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/antigravity.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/antigravity.md
@@ -3,6 +3,8 @@ name: '{{name}}'
 description: '{{description}}'
 ---
 
-Read the entire workflow file at: {project-root}/_bmad/{{workflow_path}}
+Read the entire workflow file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{workflow_path}}
 
 Follow all instructions in the workflow file exactly as written.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-agent.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-agent.md
deleted file mode 120000
index 9f6c17b45..000000000
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-agent.md
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-default-agent.md
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-agent.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-agent.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..a03686ce4
--- /dev/null
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-agent.md
@@ -0,0 +1,17 @@
+---
+name: '{{name}}'
+description: '{{description}}'
+---
+
+You must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `AskUserQuestion` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
+<agent-activation CRITICAL="TRUE">
+1. LOAD the FULL agent file from {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
+2. READ its entire contents - this contains the complete agent persona, menu, and instructions
+3. FOLLOW every step in the <activation> section precisely
+4. DISPLAY the welcome/greeting as instructed
+5. PRESENT the numbered menu
+6. WAIT for user input before proceeding
+</agent-activation>
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-task.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-task.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..27852b558
--- /dev/null
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-task.md
@@ -0,0 +1,12 @@
+---
+name: '{{name}}'
+description: '{{description}}'
+---
+
+# {{name}}
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `AskUserQuestion` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
+Read the entire task file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
+
+Follow all instructions in the task file exactly as written.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-tool.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-tool.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..5add365a0
--- /dev/null
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-tool.md
@@ -0,0 +1,12 @@
+---
+name: '{{name}}'
+description: '{{description}}'
+---
+
+# {{name}}
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `AskUserQuestion` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
+Read the entire tool file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
+
+Follow all instructions in the tool file exactly as written.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow-yaml.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow-yaml.md
deleted file mode 120000
index 11f78e1d4..000000000
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow-yaml.md
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-default-workflow-yaml.md
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow-yaml.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow-yaml.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..be4c8bd12
--- /dev/null
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow-yaml.md
@@ -0,0 +1,16 @@
+---
+name: '{{name}}'
+description: '{{description}}'
+---
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `AskUserQuestion` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
+IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THESE STEPS - while staying in character as the current agent persona you may have loaded:
+
+<steps CRITICAL="TRUE">
+1. Always LOAD the FULL {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/core/tasks/workflow.xml
+2. READ its entire contents - this is the CORE OS for EXECUTING the specific workflow-config {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
+3. Pass the yaml path {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}} as 'workflow-config' parameter to the workflow.xml instructions
+4. Follow workflow.xml instructions EXACTLY as written to process and follow the specific workflow config and its instructions
+5. Save outputs after EACH section when generating any documents from templates
+</steps>
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow.md
deleted file mode 120000
index 8d4ae5238..000000000
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow.md
+++ /dev/null
@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-default-workflow.md
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..05a63f07a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/claude-workflow.md
@@ -0,0 +1,8 @@
+---
+name: '{{name}}'
+description: '{{description}}'
+---
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `AskUserQuestion` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
+IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THIS COMMAND: LOAD the FULL {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}, READ its entire contents and follow its directions exactly!
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-agent.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-agent.md
index f8ad93801..8646885d8 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-agent.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-agent.md
@@ -5,8 +5,10 @@ description: '{{description}}'
 
 You must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 <agent-activation CRITICAL="TRUE">
-1. LOAD the FULL agent file from {project-root}/_bmad/{{path}}
+1. LOAD the FULL agent file from {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
 2. READ its entire contents - this contains the complete agent persona, menu, and instructions
 3. FOLLOW every step in the <activation> section precisely
 4. DISPLAY the welcome/greeting as instructed
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-task.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-task.md
index b865d6ffb..d6d09cfce 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-task.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-task.md
@@ -5,6 +5,8 @@ description: '{{description}}'
 
 # {{name}}
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 Read the entire task file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
 
 Follow all instructions in the task file exactly as written.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-tool.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-tool.md
index 11c6aac8d..2ebbf8700 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-tool.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-tool.md
@@ -5,6 +5,8 @@ description: '{{description}}'
 
 # {{name}}
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 Read the entire tool file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
 
 Follow all instructions in the tool file exactly as written.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow-yaml.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow-yaml.md
index 4a8da26e7..39ed9d74b 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow-yaml.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow-yaml.md
@@ -3,6 +3,8 @@ name: '{{name}}'
 description: '{{description}}'
 ---
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THESE STEPS - while staying in character as the current agent persona you may have loaded:
 
 <steps CRITICAL="TRUE">
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow.md
index c8ad40459..18edda758 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/default-workflow.md
@@ -3,4 +3,6 @@ name: '{{name}}'
 description: '{{description}}'
 ---
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THIS COMMAND: LOAD the FULL {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}, READ its entire contents and follow its directions exactly!
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-agent.toml b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-agent.toml
index ae5f791cf..5e366905f 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-agent.toml
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-agent.toml
@@ -6,6 +6,9 @@ PRE-FLIGHT CHECKLIST:
 1.  [ ] IMMEDIATE ACTION: Load and parse {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{module}}/config.yaml - store ALL config values in memory for use throughout the session.
 2.  [ ] IMMEDIATE ACTION: Read and internalize the full agent definition at {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}.
 3.  [ ] CONFIRM: The user's name from config is {user_name}.
+4.  [ ] CONFIRM: interaction_style is set to "{interaction_style}".
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the ask_user tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
 
 Only after all checks are complete, greet the user by name and display the menu.
 Acknowledge this checklist is complete in your first response.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-task.toml b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-task.toml
index 7d15e2164..4edca6c98 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-task.toml
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-task.toml
@@ -7,5 +7,7 @@ TASK INSTRUCTIONS:
 2. READ its entire contents
 3. FOLLOW every instruction precisely as specified
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the ask_user tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 TASK FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
 """
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-tool.toml b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-tool.toml
index fc78c6b72..bd88db4d3 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-tool.toml
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-tool.toml
@@ -7,5 +7,7 @@ TOOL INSTRUCTIONS:
 2. READ its entire contents
 3. FOLLOW every instruction precisely as specified
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the ask_user tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 TOOL FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
 """
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow-yaml.toml b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow-yaml.toml
index bc6c8da39..50b9899c1 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow-yaml.toml
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow-yaml.toml
@@ -12,5 +12,7 @@ CRITICAL: This is a structured YAML workflow. Follow these steps precisely:
 3. EXECUTE each step in order
 4. VALIDATE outputs before proceeding to next step
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the ask_user tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 WORKFLOW FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{workflow_path}}
 """
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow.toml b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow.toml
index 3306cce04..505ff4d4b 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow.toml
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/gemini-workflow.toml
@@ -10,5 +10,7 @@ WORKFLOW INSTRUCTIONS:
 3. FOLLOW every step precisely as specified
 4. DO NOT skip or modify any steps
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the ask_user tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 WORKFLOW FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{workflow_path}}
 """
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-agent.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-agent.md
index e2c2a83fa..7139027a4 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-agent.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-agent.md
@@ -6,6 +6,8 @@ inclusion: manual
 
 You must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 <agent-activation CRITICAL="TRUE">
 1. LOAD the FULL agent file from #[[file:{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}]]
 2. READ its entire contents - this contains the complete agent persona, menu, and instructions
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-task.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-task.md
index 8952e5ee2..0f888c33b 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-task.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-task.md
@@ -7,3 +7,5 @@ inclusion: manual
 Read the entire task file at: #[[file:{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}]]
 
 Follow all instructions in the task file exactly as written.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-tool.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-tool.md
index cd903217a..cfeb4417a 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-tool.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-tool.md
@@ -7,3 +7,5 @@ inclusion: manual
 Read the entire tool file at: #[[file:{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}]]
 
 Follow all instructions in the tool file exactly as written.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow-yaml.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow-yaml.md
index 4ee4e0824..25b0dd552 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow-yaml.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow-yaml.md
@@ -4,6 +4,8 @@ inclusion: manual
 
 # {{name}}
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THESE STEPS - while staying in character as the current agent persona you may have loaded:
 
 <steps CRITICAL="TRUE">
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow.md
index e1847f414..84fe56a4a 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/kiro-workflow.md
@@ -4,4 +4,6 @@ inclusion: manual
 
 # {{name}}
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THIS COMMAND: LOAD the FULL #[[file:{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}]], READ its entire contents and follow its directions exactly!
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-agent.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-agent.md
index 828d673ac..568a2b813 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-agent.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-agent.md
@@ -5,6 +5,8 @@ description: '{{description}}'
 
 You must fully embody this agent's persona and follow all activation instructions exactly as specified. NEVER break character until given an exit command.
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `question` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 <agent-activation CRITICAL="TRUE">
 1. LOAD the FULL agent file from {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
 2. READ its entire contents - this contains the complete agent persona, menu, and instructions
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-task.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-task.md
index 772f9c9eb..ebc5c96bb 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-task.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-task.md
@@ -10,4 +10,6 @@ TASK INSTRUCTIONS:
 2. READ its entire contents
 3. FOLLOW every instruction precisely as specified
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `question` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 TASK FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-tool.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-tool.md
index 88c317e63..d71c404cd 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-tool.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-tool.md
@@ -10,4 +10,6 @@ TOOL INSTRUCTIONS:
 2. READ its entire contents
 3. FOLLOW every instruction precisely as specified
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `question` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 TOOL FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow-yaml.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow-yaml.md
index 88838cc1c..56c444a87 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow-yaml.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow-yaml.md
@@ -13,4 +13,6 @@ WORKFLOW INSTRUCTIONS:
 3. FOLLOW every step precisely as specified
 4. DO NOT skip or modify any steps
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `question` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 WORKFLOW FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow.md
index 88838cc1c..56c444a87 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/opencode-workflow.md
@@ -13,4 +13,6 @@ WORKFLOW INSTRUCTIONS:
 3. FOLLOW every step precisely as specified
 4. DO NOT skip or modify any steps
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST call the `question` tool unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 WORKFLOW FILE: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{path}}
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/rovodev.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/rovodev.md
index 066945ee5..d93ceee65 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/rovodev.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/rovodev.md
@@ -4,6 +4,8 @@
 
 ---
 
-Read the entire workflow file at: {project-root}/_bmad/{{workflow_path}}
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
+Read the entire workflow file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{workflow_path}}
 
 Follow all instructions in the workflow file exactly as written.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/trae.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/trae.md
index b4d43d7af..1df51bf82 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/trae.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/trae.md
@@ -4,6 +4,8 @@
 
 ## Instructions
 
-Read the entire workflow file at: {project-root}/_bmad/{{workflow_path}}
+Read the entire workflow file at: {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{workflow_path}}
 
 Follow all instructions in the workflow file exactly as written.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/windsurf-workflow.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/windsurf-workflow.md
index 6366425c7..b0d8b6fe1 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/windsurf-workflow.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/combined/windsurf-workflow.md
@@ -5,6 +5,8 @@ auto_execution_mode: "iterate"
 
 # {{name}}
 
-Read the entire workflow file at {project-root}/_bmad/{{workflow_path}}
+Read the entire workflow file at {project-root}/{{bmadFolderName}}/{{workflow_path}}
 
 Follow all instructions in the workflow file exactly as written.
+
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-command-template.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-command-template.md
index 328983c9e..6c71ee308 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-command-template.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-command-template.md
@@ -2,6 +2,8 @@
 description: '{{description}}'
 ---
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THESE STEPS - while staying in character as the current agent persona you may have loaded:
 
 <steps CRITICAL="TRUE">
diff --git a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-commander.md b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-commander.md
index 66eee15d1..d81070575 100644
--- a/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-commander.md
+++ b/tools/cli/installers/lib/ide/templates/workflow-commander.md
@@ -2,4 +2,6 @@
 description: '{{description}}'
 ---
 
+RULE: Check your stored {interaction_style} session variable from activation step 2. When its value is "structured", EVERY question to the user MUST use structured options with a numbered list unless the workflow or user explicitly requests free-form input. If you cannot determine {interaction_style}, default to open mode.
+
 IT IS CRITICAL THAT YOU FOLLOW THIS COMMAND: LOAD the FULL {project-root}/{{workflow_path}}, READ its entire contents and follow its directions exactly!