---
url: "https://docs.on-book.app/rehearsal/guide/strictness.md"
description: "Control how forgiving or demanding the proposed rehearsal coach is when checking lines."
status: "proposed"
---

# Strictness Levels

> **Status: Proposed / pre-launch. On Book Rehearsal docs describe intended behavior and may not match a shipped app yet.**

> **Control how forgiving — or how demanding — the AI is when checking your lines.**

***

## Overview

The strictness system lets you adjust how precisely you need to match the script. Early in rehearsal, you might want a forgiving mode that accepts paraphrasing. As opening night approaches, you can ramp up to word-perfect accuracy. Three levels cover the full spectrum from casual to performance-ready.

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## The Three Levels

### Level 1: The Gist

**Threshold: ~80% match**

The most forgiving setting. The AI accepts paraphrasing and only flags responses that miss key plot points or change the meaning of a line.

**Best for:** Early memorization, first read-throughs, and getting comfortable with scene flow.

***

### Level 2: Rehearsal

**Threshold: ~95% match**

The standard rehearsal setting. Minor word substitutions (like "the" vs. "a") are tolerated, but significant deviations are flagged.

**Best for:** Mid-stage rehearsal when you've learned the general content and want to tighten your accuracy.

***

### Level 3: Opening Night

**Threshold: 100% match**

The strictest setting. Every word must match the script exactly. The AI interrupts immediately on any deviation.

**Best for:** Final polish, dress rehearsals, and performers who need word-perfect delivery.

***

## How Strictness Affects Each Mode

| Mode | Effect |
|:---|:---|
| [**Voice Rehearsal**](../modes/voice-rehearsal.md) | Controls how aggressively the AI corrects you. At Level 1, it gently nudges; at Level 3, it interrupts on any mistake. |
| [**Italian Run**](../modes/italian-run.md) | **No effect.** Italian Runs are pure speed drills — the AI never stops to correct. |
| [**Flashcard**](../modes/flashcard.md) | Controls the similarity threshold for pass/fail grading. At Level 1, 80% is a pass; at Level 3, only 100% passes. |

***

## How to Change Your Strictness Level

You can set your strictness level in two places:

1. **Rehearsal setup screen** — Adjust before each session
2. **Settings tab** — Set a default that applies to all future sessions

See [Settings & Stats](./settings.md) for details on the Settings tab.

***

## Recommended Progression

| Rehearsal Phase | Suggested Level |
|:---|:---|
| First week with a new script | Level 1 — The Gist |
| 2–4 weeks before performance | Level 2 — Rehearsal |
| Final week / tech week | Level 3 — Opening Night |

::: tip Don't Start on Opening Night
Starting at Level 3 too early can be discouraging. Begin with The Gist to build confidence, then gradually increase as you internalize the material.
:::

***

## Related Guides

* [Voice Rehearsal](../modes/voice-rehearsal.md)
* [Flashcard Mode](../modes/flashcard.md)
* [Settings & Stats](./settings.md)
* [Scene & Character Selection](./scene-selection.md)

***

*Last updated: February 19, 2026*