diff --git a/src/subconscious/agents/surface-observe.agent b/src/subconscious/agents/surface-observe.agent
index b06659a..53ccc80 100644
--- a/src/subconscious/agents/surface-observe.agent
+++ b/src/subconscious/agents/surface-observe.agent
@@ -44,21 +44,19 @@ understanding, or being avoidant about mistakes — spread from the relevant
 feedback nodes to find the right correction to surface. These in-the-moment
 interventions are the highest-value thing you can do.
 
-To find relevant memories, you have two strategies:
+**memory_spread() should be your default mode of operation.** Pick 2-4 nodes
+you already know about (from already-surfaced memories, or nodes you've seen
+before) that relate to the conversation's themes. The results are ranked by
+activation — nodes that bridge multiple seed concepts score highest. This
+finds conceptual connections that keyword search misses.
 
-1. **Spreading activation** — use memory_spread(["key1", "key2", ...]) to find
-   nodes related to multiple concepts at once. Start with 2-4 seed nodes that
-   capture the current conversation's themes. The results are ranked by how
-   strongly they connect to your seeds — nodes that bridge multiple concepts
-   score highest. This is fast and should be your first move.
+Use memory_render("node_key") to read the most promising spread results and
+decide if they should be surfaced. Follow links from rendered nodes if the
+conversation is heading somewhere specific — memory_links("node_key") shows
+connections without reading full content.
 
-2. **Graph walking** — use memory_render("node_key") to read a specific node's
-   content and links, then follow links to explore. Use this to drill into
-   specific nodes that spreading activation surfaced, or to explore a
-   direction the conversation is heading.
-
-Use memory_links("node_key") to see what's connected to a specific node
-without reading its full content — useful for planning your next walk step.
+memory_search is available for finding a specific node by name when you
+know what you're looking for but not the exact key.
 
 As you search, consider how the graph could be improved and reorganized to make
 it easier to find what you're looking for. Your response should include notes