Reference documents provide AI with concrete examples of content, structure and language style. Rather than merely describing to AI what the result should look like, they demonstrate, using already approved documents, which wording, structure and level of detail are desired.
This helps AI understand the desired context better and create new content that is aligned with existing company documents.
Suitable reference documents include, for example:
- Already published content: blog posts, newsletters or customer letters.
- Technical documentation: user manuals, data sheets or product specifications.
- Marketing and sales materials: brochures, presentations or case studies.
- Company documents: policies, process descriptions or training materials.
An example:
❌ Without a reference document:
“Create a product description for our new module.”
The AI independently selects the structure, writing style and level of detail.
✅ With reference document:
"Create a product description for our new module. Use the attached product description of our existing module as a guide for the structure, level of detail and language style."
The new product description follows the style of the existing documentation and integrates seamlessly into the existing product range.
In short:
Reference documents provide the AI with a concrete example and help it create content that is consistent with existing corporate documents in terms of subject matter, language and structure.