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require-agents-md-for-cross-surface-agent-instructions

Require CLAUDE.md and GEMINI.md agent-instructions files to be paired with a sibling AGENTS.md for broader cross-surface support.

Rule catalog ID: R037

Targeted pattern scope​

  • **/CLAUDE.md
  • **/GEMINI.md

What this rule reports​

  • CLAUDE.md files that do not have a same-directory AGENTS.md
  • GEMINI.md files that do not have a same-directory AGENTS.md

Why this rule exists​

Some instruction filenames are specific to particular tools or surfaces, while AGENTS.md has broader reach across Copilot-related agent experiences. Pairing surface-specific instruction files with AGENTS.md helps keep critical guidance available in more places.

❌ Incorrect​

docs/
CLAUDE.md

✅ Correct​

docs/
AGENTS.md
CLAUDE.md

Further reading​