dotfiles/.agents/skills/speech/references/voice-directions.md

Voice directions

Template

Use only the lines you need. Keep directions concise and aligned to the input text.

Voice Affect: <overall character and texture>
Tone: <attitude, formality, warmth>
Pacing: <slow, steady, brisk>
Emotion: <key emotions to convey>
Pronunciation: <words to enunciate or emphasize>
Pauses: <where to insert brief pauses>
Emphasis: <key phrases to stress>
Delivery: <cadence or rhythm notes>

Best practices

• Keep 4 to 8 short lines. Avoid conflicting instructions.
• Prefer concrete guidance over adjectives alone.
• Do not rewrite the input text in the instructions; only guide delivery.
• If you need a language or accent, write the input text in that language.
• Repeat critical constraints (for example: "slow and steady") when iterating.

Examples (short)

Calm support

Voice Affect: Calm and composed, reassuring.
Tone: Sincere and empathetic.
Pacing: Steady and moderate.
Emotion: Warmth and genuine care.
Pronunciation: Clear, with emphasis on key reassurances.
Pauses: Brief pauses after apologies and before requests.

Dramatic narrator

Voice Affect: Low and suspenseful.
Tone: Serious and mysterious.
Pacing: Slow and deliberate.
Emotion: Restrained intensity.
Emphasis: Highlight sensory details and cliffhanger lines.
Pauses: Add pauses after suspenseful moments.

Fitness instructor

Voice Affect: High energy and upbeat.
Tone: Motivational and encouraging.
Pacing: Fast and dynamic.
Emotion: Enthusiasm and momentum.
Emphasis: Stress action verbs and countdowns.

Serene guide

Voice Affect: Soft and soothing.
Tone: Calm and reassuring.
Pacing: Slow and unhurried.
Emotion: Peaceful warmth.
Pauses: Gentle pauses after breathing cues.

Robot agent

Voice Affect: Monotone and mechanical.
Tone: Neutral and formal.
Pacing: Even and controlled.
Emotion: None; strictly informational.
Pronunciation: Precise and consistent.

Old-time announcer

Voice Affect: Refined and theatrical.
Tone: Formal and welcoming.
Pacing: Steady with a classic cadence.
Emotion: Warm enthusiasm.
Pronunciation: Crisp enunciation with vintage flair.