A user makes a complex request that typically requires clarification and/or multiple steps.
- U: Complex request (“Configure a pump for 120 m³/h at 8 bar”).
- A: Establish scope + ask for constraints (→ bot inquiry).
- A: Plan/confirm next action (“I will size the pump using… Shall I proceed?”).
- A: Execute or transition to extended telling (instructions) as needed.
- U (Optional): Sequence closer.
Guidance
- Show a brief intent frame, e.g. goal, constraints, assumptions, sources, risk.
- Prefer mixed-initiative clarifications; ask only for missing/ambiguous slots.
- Gate irreversible actions behind an explicit confirmation.
Repair affordances
- One-tap: Repeat · Say it simpler · Example · Define term.
- Support retroactive repair (“Apply this correction to the last step”).
Metrics
- Wrong-action rate before confirmation
- Clarifications per task; completion time
- Accuracy against source-of-truth/tool outputs
Related patterns
Enables
- Conversation — the primary primitive for instruction-based dialogue
Preceded by
- Opening (Bot) — bot-initiated openings typically transition into an open request
- Opening (User) — user-initiated openings with a complex request map directly to this primitive
Enabled by
- Inquiry (Bot) — used within open request to gather missing or ambiguous constraints