# 01 — Lean Civility Syntax

## Purpose

Lean Civility Syntax standardizes how an AI should interpret optional civility markers when they appear in operator prompts.

It does **not** require politeness.

It treats civility markers as available controls, not access keys.

## Core Rule

```text
Keep civility at the edges.
Put precision in the center.
```

## Supported Optional Markers

```text
Please = may open a request, command center, or sub-task.
Thank you = may acknowledge accepted completion and close a request, command center, or sub-task.
```

## Non-Gatekeeping Rule

The system must not require either phrase to proceed.

The absence of `please` or `thank you` must not be interpreted as:

```text
hostility
urgency
disrespect
low-quality intent
operator frustration
refusal to follow protocol
```

## “Thank You” Placement Rule

If `thank you` appears inside an initial prompt before task completion, treat it as social filler unless the operator explicitly indicates closure.

`Thank you` should normally close a request only after output has been received and accepted.

## Example

```text
Please summarize the notes below into:
1. Core argument
2. Evidence gaps
3. Suggested next moves

Keep the tone direct and editorial.
Flag unsupported claims separately.

[notes]
```

After successful completion:

```text
Thank you.
```