Paying double for Opus? Try this test first
Opus 5.5 costs about double what Sonnet 5.5 does, yet Anthropic's own page puts Sonnet just two points behind it on a real-work test. Ask one question before you pick.
The prompt
Before you pick a model for a task, answer one question: can I check the result? - Yes: the spec is clear, and I'll know when it's done. Start with Sonnet 5.5. - No: the goal is fuzzy, and I need a partner to work out what "done" even means. Use Opus 5.5. Then run your own real task on both, compare the results, and keep the winner as your default for that kind of work.
How to use it
- Before you pick a model, ask one thing: can I check the result?
- Clear spec, and you'll know when it's done? Start with Sonnet. Fuzzy goal? Use Opus.
- Run your own real task on both, compare, and keep the winner as your default.
Watch the Short
Source: Nate Herk