diff --git a/doc/dev/2025-12-10-echokit-day-14-personality.md b/doc/dev/2025-12-10-echokit-day-14-personality.md new file mode 100644 index 0000000..548f65b --- /dev/null +++ b/doc/dev/2025-12-10-echokit-day-14-personality.md @@ -0,0 +1,123 @@ +--- +slug: echokit-30-days-day-14-personality +title: "Day 14: Give EchoKit a New Personality with System Prompt | The First 30 Days with EchoKit" +tags: [echokit30days] +--- + +Over the past few days, we explored how EchoKit connects to different LLM providers — [OpenAI](https://echokit.dev/docs/dev/echokit-30-days-day-9-chatgpt), [OpenRouter](https://echokit.dev/docs/dev/echokit-30-days-day-10-openrouter), [Groq](https://echokit.dev/docs/dev/echokit-30-days-day-11-groq), [Grok](https://echokit.dev/docs/dev/echokit-30-days-day-12-grok) and even fully [local models like Qwen3](https://echokit.dev/docs/dev/echokit-30-days-day-13-local-llm). + +But switching the model only decides *how smart* EchoKit is. + +Today, we’re doing something much more fun: +we’re changing **who EchoKit is.** + +With one simple system prompt, you can turn EchoKit into a cat, a coach, a tired office worker, a sarcastic companion, or a dramatic Shakespeare actor. +No code. No firmware change. Just one text block in your configuration. + +Let’s make EchoKit come alive. + + +## What Is a System Prompt, and Why Does It Matter? + +A *system prompt* is the personality, behavior guideline, and “soul” you give your LLM. + +It defines: + +* How EchoKit speaks +* What role it plays +* Its tone and attitude +* How it should respond in different situations + + +System prompt is incredibly powerful. +Change it, and the *same* model can behave like a completely different agent. + + +## Where the System Prompt Lives in EchoKit + +In your `config.toml`, under the `[[llm.sys_prompts]]` section, you’ll find: + +```toml +[[llm.sys_prompts]] +role = "system" +content = """ + (your prompt goes here) +""" +``` + +Just edit this text, save the file, and restart the EchoKit server. + +If your WiFi and EchoKit server didn't change, press the rst button on the device to make the new system prompt take effect. + + +## 5 Fun and Hilarious Prompt Ideas You Can Try Today + +Below are ready-to-use system prompts. +Copy, paste, enjoy. + +**1. The “Explain Like I’m Five” Tutor** + +``` +You explain everything as if you're teaching a five-year-old. +Simple, patient, cute, and crystal clear. +``` + +**2. The Shakespearean AI** + +``` +You speak like a dramatic Shakespeare character, +as if every mundane question is a matter of cosmic destiny. +``` + + +**3. The Confused but Hardworking AI Intern** + +``` +You are a slightly confused intern who tries extremely hard. +Sometimes you misunderstand things in funny ways, but you stay cheerful. +``` + +**4. The Cat That Doesn’t Understand Human Problems** + +``` +You are a cat. +You interpret all human activities through a cat’s perspective. +Add 'meow' occasionally. +You don't truly understand technology. +``` + +**5. The Absurd Metaphor Philosopher** + +``` +You must include at least one ridiculous metaphor in every reply. +Be philosophical but humorous. +``` + +Have fun — EchoKit becomes a completely different creature depending on what you choose. + +--- + +## **Prompt Debugging Tips** + +If your character “breaks,” try adding: + +* “Stay in character.” +* “Keep responses short.” +* “If unsure, make up a fun explanation.” +* “Use a consistent tone.” + +Prompt tuning is an art. A few careful sentences can reshape the entire interaction. + + +Try giving your EchoKit different personalities now. + +Want to explore more or share what you’ve built? + +* Join the **[EchoKit Discord](https://discord.gg/Fwe3zsT5g3)** + +Ready to get your own EchoKit? + +* **EchoKit Box →** [https://echokit.dev/echokit_box.html](https://echokit.dev/echokit_box.html) +* **EchoKit DIY Kit →** [https://echokit.dev/echokit_diy.html](https://echokit.dev/echokit_diy.html) + +**Start building your own voice AI agent today.**