diff --git a/state-hub/scripts/project_claude_md.template b/state-hub/scripts/project_claude_md.template
index 88171b6..e0cf2a0 100644
--- a/state-hub/scripts/project_claude_md.template
+++ b/state-hub/scripts/project_claude_md.template
@@ -10,6 +10,10 @@ exposes tools for reading and writing state without touching the API directly.
 
 ### Session Protocol
 
+**On receiving your first message — before writing any response text — call
+`get_state_summary()` immediately.** Do not greet, do not ask what to do.
+Call the tool first, then respond based on what you find.
+
 **At the start of every session:**
 1. Call `get_state_summary()` — orients you to active workstreams, blocking decisions,
    and recent progress. If it fails, the API is likely offline: