> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.docwriter.org/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
# Writing references
> Voice samples the agent matches when it generates prose.
A **writing reference** is a sample of prose whose voice you want the
agent to match. References complement [writing
rules](/customize/rules): rules are explicit instructions ("avoid
passive voice"); references are implicit ("write like this").
## Adding a reference
In the menu bar, open **Settings** and click **Writing references**.
Three ways to add a reference:
* **Use the current file.** Saves the active tab's content as a
reference.
* **Paste a sample.** Paste a chunk of prose directly into the panel.
* **Save a URL.** Point at a web page; DocWriter fetches the text.
Each reference can be enabled or disabled. Disabled references stay in
the panel but aren't sent to the agent.
## Examples
* A previous blog post of yours, for the agent to match in a new one.
* A paper introduction whose tone you want to emulate.
* A style guide page (e.g., a journal's prose conventions) for academic
writing.
* A specific author's writing whose voice fits the project.
## How references compare to rules
| Use a rule when | Use a reference when |
| ----------------------------------------------- | ---------------------------------------------- |
| You can articulate the preference as a sentence | The preference is mostly about tone and rhythm |
| It applies to every piece of writing | It applies to a specific project or genre |
| It's a hard constraint (avoid X, always do Y) | It's a soft pull toward a particular voice |
Both can be active at the same time. Rules tell the agent what not to
do; references show it what good output looks like.
## Where to go next
* [Writing rules](/customize/rules). Hard, persistent style
instructions.
* [Skills](/customize/skills). For richer situational behaviors.