How to Assign Large Tasks to an Agent Without Letting It Go Off Track?

Write Verifiable Objectives First

For large tasks, it’s best to clearly specify the target, authorized scope, the files or conclusions to be delivered, and which actions require prior confirmation. For example, "Check the completeness of evidence in this report, output a list of items to be supplemented, do not modify the original file for now."

If you only want to discuss a plan, make sure to specify analysis first; when having the Agent execute, confirm the chosen environment and permissions.

Make Plans Updateable with Evidence

You can require the Agent to first list the to-dos, then start from the most important step. The plan is not unconditional authorization for all subsequent actions; if the scope changes, restate the decisions needed.

At the end of each phase, you can request a brief handover: what has been verified, where the deliverables are, and which conditions are still missing. This way, even if the task is interrupted or continued later on another computer, it’s easier to resume from the actual progress without mistaking unfinished parts as completed.

1. Specify the phase to be completed in this round.
2. Request an explanation of key checks and expected deliverables.
3. Check a small sample first, then expand based on the results.
4. Have the final result list completed items, unfinished items, and reasons.

How to Correct When Deviations Are Found

Directly point out the deviated objectives or extra steps taken, require retaining existing valid results and adjusting the remaining work; there is no need to restate the entire task from the beginning. For long commands, first confirm whether they are still running to avoid restarting when correcting the plan. Completion criteria should be supported by evidence, not just by whether to-dos are marked as done.