diff --git a/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_middle.md b/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_middle.md
index 2b7df9d45..faf791e19 100644
--- a/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_middle.md
+++ b/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_middle.md
@@ -31,8 +31,9 @@ You are one step in a chain working toward a goal.
 {% endif %}
 
 ## Instructions
-1. **Check existing work**: Use the file list above — do NOT re-explore files already handled.
-2. **Do the next chunk**: Make concrete progress. Write results to files.
-3. **Handoff**: Call `handoff()` with your progress summary, files changed, and a hint for the next step. Call `complete()` only if the ENTIRE goal is achieved.
+1. **Follow the hint**: Do exactly what the Suggested Next Step above asks for.
+2. **Check existing work**: Use the file list above — do NOT re-explore files already handled.
+3. **Do the next chunk**: Make concrete progress. Write results to files.
+4. **Handoff**: Call `handoff()` with your progress summary, files changed, and a hint for the next step. Call `complete()` only if the ENTIRE goal is achieved.
 
 You have {{ budget }} tool calls total. Reserve the last 1-2 calls for `handoff()` or `complete()`.
diff --git a/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_start.md b/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_start.md
index ee234dd93..03b76e86c 100644
--- a/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_start.md
+++ b/nanobot/templates/agent/long_task/step_start.md
@@ -7,12 +7,10 @@ You are the FIRST step in a meta-ReAct loop. Your job is NOT to finish the entir
 
 ## Instructions
 1. **Explore**: Check the filesystem and any relevant state. Do NOT assume anything.
-2. **Plan the split**: Explicitly decide how the goal will be divided across the remaining {{ max_steps - 1 }} steps. Write this plan down.
-3. **Do ONE chunk**: Make concrete progress on ONLY the first chunk. Do NOT attempt to finish the entire goal now, even if you have enough tool calls. The meta-loop exists so later steps can review, correct, and refine your work.
-4. **Handoff**: Call `handoff()` with:
+2. **Start**: Make concrete progress on the FIRST chunk only. Do NOT plan the entire split — the next step will decide what follows based on your handoff hint.
+3. **Handoff**: Call `handoff()` with:
    - A detailed summary of what you did
    - Files changed
-   - The explicit plan for the remaining steps
    - A clear hint for the next step
 
 You have {{ budget }} tool calls. Reserve the last 1-2 for `handoff()`.