Validation Loop (Retry-with-Feedback)

Prompting

Definition

A pattern where structured output that fails validation is sent back to Claude with the specific error, requesting a correction. More effective than silent retries because Claude uses the error feedback to understand and fix the problem. Typically capped at 2-3 retries.

Example Usage

If JSON.parse() throws, send the error message back: 'Your output failed validation: {error}. Please correct and return valid JSON.'

Related Concepts

Retry-with-Error-Feedback Pattern

Prompt Engineering

Append specific validation errors to the retry prompt -- not just 'try again'

Feedback Loop Design & Dismissal Pattern Analysis