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Use actions when you repeat the same task pattern and want consistent output quality.

What an action gives you

Reusable prompts

Run the same workflow without rewriting instructions each time.

Model choice

Assign the best model for each task.

Tool control

Enable only the tools needed for safer, faster runs.

Create your first action

1

Open Action Editor

Open the Alter window menu and select Action Editor.
2

Create or duplicate

Create a new action, or duplicate a built-in action before customizing it.
3

Set clear instructions

Define one concrete outcome, such as weekly summary, release notes, or inbox triage.
4

Save and run

Test with one real input and refine wording if needed.
Built-in actions are read-only. Duplicate them to customize behavior.

Pick a model and tools per action

Use the Model and Tools tabs in the Action Editor to assign a model and tool access.
  • Choose local models for sensitive tasks.
  • Choose faster models for automation-heavy tasks.
  • Start with minimal tools, then add only what your workflow needs.

Ask Anything — the default action

When you type in the prompt without choosing another action, Alter runs Ask Anything. Since 2.0.0-beta100, it includes Flow, Computer Use, and Ask User by default so everyday prompts can orchestrate tools, automate the screen, or ask clarifying questions. To customize: open Action Editor (⌘⇧E) → Ask AnythingTools. Duplicate Ask Anything if you want a variant without changing the built-in default. See Use Flow for tool orchestration for how Flow fits the default setup.