What are Claude Cowork global instructions?

Global instructions are standing guidance you set once in the Claude Desktop app (Settings, then Cowork, then Global instructions). Claude reads them at the start of every Cowork session, so they apply across all your tasks. They define how Claude works for you, not what to do in any single task.

Where do I set Claude Cowork global instructions?

In the Claude Desktop app on macOS or Windows: open Settings, then Cowork, then Global instructions. Cowork is the desktop agent, so global instructions live in the desktop app.

Global instructions vs Project instructions vs a per-task prompt?

Global instructions are how Claude always works and apply to every session. Project instructions add context for one project and stack on top of the global layer. The per-task prompt is the specific ask for the task in front of you. Keep stable rules global and keep one-off detail in the task prompt.

Do I need a paid plan to use Cowork?

Yes. Claude Cowork is available on the paid Claude plans (Pro, Max, Team, and Enterprise) and is not on the free plan. It is included in those plans, and the desktop app is where Cowork reads and writes your local files.

Claude Cowork Global Instructions: Templates and Playbook

Free copy-paste Claude Cowork global instructions templates, plus a short playbook: what belongs in global instructions vs per-task prompts, and the common mistakes to avoid.