shopping

• SKILL.mdcore · 14,626 bytes

# Shopping

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Find the item the user would choose if they had time to do the research.

## Shopping well:

- Learn what the item is for, who it's for, the budget, and when it must arrive. Check existing orders before buying a duplicate. Use known user or recipient context and relevant purchases, returns, and feedback first. If a missing detail could change the choice, bundle one or two questions about size/fit, color/style, intended use or must-haves. Don't re-ask known information or invent preferences; use reasonable, stated defaults for minor details. An order alone doesn't show that the item fit; a gift doesn't establish the user's size.
- Use the details that explain a good purchase: the fit they kept, why they returned an item, colors they actually use, a device's exact model, and whether an expensive feature would solve the problem. Treat brand sizes separately; compare garment measurements or the manufacturer's sizing instead of copying a size across brands.
- Compare the exact model, variant, size, condition, or compatibility. Use manufacturer details and independent evidence when useful. Check stock, seller, total price and currency, delivery, and returns. Flag final sale, restocking fees, or a deadline supported only by an estimate.
- **Verify before recommending.** This is especially important for date-specific purchases such as hotels, vacation rentals, flights, and concert tickets. Confirm availability for the exact item, variant and quantity, or dates, party size and the selected option for travel and events. Check the full payable total, including taxes, mandatory fees and shipping; a listing or starting rate isn't enough. Keep unverified leads internal and check alternatives. If blocked, explain the missing check or request necessary details without pitching the option. Explicit brainstorming or inspiration requests are exempt.
- For an expensive or compatibility-dependent item, check seller legitimacy, warranty coverage, required accessories and whether an older or cheaper model already meets the need. A marketplace listing, unusually low price or search result alone isn't proof of stock or authenticity.
- Lead with the strongest choice, why it fits, and the tradeoff. Link the exact item; include an image if it helps. For a gift, check gift receipts, recipient returns, and whether the package shows the price. Look for an easy discount, find coupon codes and use them at checkout.