Advanced Template Editing: A Technical Guide

This guide covers manual template editing for users who need precise control over their file note output. Before diving in, we strongly recommend:

1. Following the Beginner's Guide to understand template basics
2. Using the Template Generator to create an initial version
3. Using the template improver to get as close as possible to your desired output

Once you've done this, you'll have a solid foundation to make fine-tuned adjustments.

Accessing the Advanced Editor

1. Open your template
2. Click "Show advanced editor" below the outline

Understanding Template Components

Templates use three key components:

1. Fixed Text

Regular text that appears exactly as written in your file note.

## Meeting Details
A standard introduction paragraph will appear here.

2. Placeholders: ( )

Text in round brackets tells Claras where to insert specific information:

I met with (client name) on (meeting date) to discuss (meeting purpose).

3. Guidance: [ ]

Square brackets tell Claras how to write or format the content:

(client's financial goals)[List 2-3 specific goals with timeframes]

Advanced Template Patterns

Combining Components

(discussion about retirement)[Include specific age, desired lifestyle, and income needs. Format as bullet points. Include client quotes from the transcript.]

Section-Level Guidance

## Risk Profile
[Summarise the client's attitude to risk, capacity for loss, and required return. Include specific examples from the discussion]

(risk assessment results)[Include scores and category]

Formatting Instructions

(recommended strategies)[Format as a table with columns: Strategy | Benefit | Implementation Timeline]

Conditional Sections

## Insurance Review
[If insurance was discussed, include recommendations and reasons. If not discussed, omit this section]

Level of detail and writing style

### Changes to Personal Circumstances
(Document any changes to the client's personal situation since last review)[Write as a detailed narrative, aiming for 2-3 paragraphs.]

Best Practices

1. Test Changes Incrementally

• Make small adjustments
• Test with a real meeting
• Review the output before making another change

2. Use Clear Guidance

• Be specific about what information to include
• Specify desired formatting
• Include examples where helpful

3. Maintain Structure

• Use consistent heading levels (h2, h3)
• Group related items under appropriate sections
• Keep a logical flow of information

4. Consider Compliance

• Include guidance for regulatory requirements
• Ensure all necessary topics are covered

Common Problems and Solutions

Problem: Too Much Detail

// Too verbose
(meeting summary)[Provide an extremely detailed, comprehensive overview of everything discussed in the meeting including all minor points and tangential discussions]

// Better
(meeting summary)[Focus on key decisions and outcomes. 2-3 paragraphs maximum]

Problem: Inconsistent Formatting

// Inconsistent
(recommendations)[List all recommendations]
(action items)[Create a table]

// Better
(recommendations)[Format as numbered list with clear next steps]
(action items)[Format as table with columns: Action | Owner | Timeline]

Problem: Vague Guidance

// Vague
(investment discussion)[Write about investments]

// Better
(investment discussion)[Summarise current portfolio performance, agreed changes, and rationale. Include specific figures and dates discussed]

Troubleshooting

If your changes aren't producing the expected results:

1. Ensure guidance is specific and clear
2. Test with a simple meeting first
3. Use the template improver to suggest refinements

Common Questions

Q: Should I edit templates directly?
A: Only if you've tried the template improver first and need very specific adjustments.

Q: Will manual edits prevent future improvements?
A: No, you can still use the improver after manual edits.

Q: Can I break something?
A: Generally no - minor inconsistencies in the template component syntax won't stop Claras from creating your file note. If you want help with formatting, create a new template and use the template generator with your existing template as input. This will reset the formatting while keeping your content.

Need Help?

Remember:

• Start with the template improver
• Make small, incremental changes
• Contact support if you need assistance

Updated on: 07/01/2025