Interactive Mode

Interactive mode is where Zcrafter feels most useful. You can speak naturally, but you will get the best results when your request is direct and specific.

How to ask for faster results

For simple tasks, say exactly what you want done and what the answer should include.

Examples:

• List the members in Z62429.JCL.
• Read Z62429.JCL(JCL1) and explain what it does.
• Submit Z62429.JCL(JCL1), wait for completion, and tell me the condition code.
• Show the latest spool output for my most recent job and summarize any errors.
• List all datasets that start with my HLQ and group them by purpose.

What makes a prompt strong

A good prompt usually includes three things:

1. The target
   Example: a dataset, member, job, or topic.
2. The action
   Example: list, read, submit, explain, summarize, delete, or compare.
3. The outcome you want back
   Example: condition code, error summary, grouped list, or short explanation.

Follow-up prompts work best when the target is already on screen

Once Zcrafter has shown a job, dataset, or member, short follow-ups usually become more reliable.

Examples:

• Delete that job.
• Open that member.
• Only show me the errors.
• Explain that output in plain English.

When to use one prompt vs several

Use one prompt when the task is straightforward:

• List members in Z62429.JCL and tell me which ones look runnable.
• Submit this job and tell me the condition code.

Break it into steps when:

• you want to inspect something before acting
• the cleanup is destructive
• you want to compare several outputs before deciding

Best practices for mainframe tasks

• Name the dataset or member explicitly when you can.
• Ask for the exact result you want, such as condition code or spool summary.
• Use follow-ups after a result is visible instead of repeating long context every time.
• Be extra explicit for delete, cancel, and purge actions.

Best practices for study and writing tasks

• Ask for the audience level: beginner, intermediate, or advanced.
• Ask for the format: bullets, quiz, guide, checklist, or flashcards.
• Say whether you want a short answer or a detailed walkthrough.

If Zcrafter does not do what you expected

Try one of these changes:

• use a more explicit target
• ask for one action at a time
• say exactly what should be returned
• confirm the previous result before using a short follow-up

If it still feels wrong, use Troubleshooting or ask for help in the Discord Community.