Saved instructions can influence Gemini across eligible Workspace products. They are different from a one-time Gmail prompt and do not synchronize with instructions saved separately in Gemini Apps. Review the correct settings when a writing preference seems to persist unexpectedly.
Find the saved Workspace instructions
On a computer, open Gmail and Ask Gemini. In the side panel, use Menu, Settings, and Personalization. Access depends on the current eligible plan or tester conditions. If the control is unavailable in a managed account, ask about the applicable feature policy.
Review the instruction list before adding another entry. Google’s guide says language such as a request to remember a preference for future responses can automatically save an instruction. A preference you mentioned in a conversation may therefore deserve a settings review.
Keep preferences specific and appropriate
Use instructions for style, structure, or recurring context, such as preferring short paragraphs. Do not store passwords, private customer records, or a demand to treat guesses as verified facts. A saved preference does not make an unsupported claim true.
Instructions carry across supported Workspace apps. A formatting rule added in Gmail can influence a response in Docs or Slides, so consider that broader effect before saving a narrowly worded exception.
Test the result and remove outdated entries
Where available, check Sources under a response for the Personalization settings contribution. Compare a harmless request with the preference enabled and disabled. Turning the instructions control off leaves the saved list in place; deleting an instruction is a separate, permanent action.
Remove only the entry you no longer want, or use the documented bulk controls when appropriate. Check Gemini Apps separately if the same preference exists there. Keep the current email’s explicit requirements clear even when saved instructions are active, and review the final message before sending.
Browse Gmail & Google Account help
References
- Customize Gemini in Workspace's responses with your instructions
- Learn how to use sources with Google Workspace with Gemini
Reviewed against the linked official product guidance on November 3, 2026. Features, limits, screen labels, and access can vary by account, platform, region, and organization policy.