diff --git a/src/serena/tools/config_tools.py b/src/serena/tools/config_tools.py
index bc856ec5..45ca01c7 100644
--- a/src/serena/tools/config_tools.py
+++ b/src/serena/tools/config_tools.py
@@ -14,7 +14,9 @@ class ActivateProjectTool(Tool, ToolMarkerDoesNotRequireActiveProject):
         :param project: the name of a registered project to activate or a path to a project directory
         """
         active_project = self.agent.activate_project_from_path_or_name(project)
-        return active_project.get_activation_message()
+        result = active_project.get_activation_message()
+        result += "\nIMPORTANT: If you have not yet read the 'Serena Instructions Manual', do it now before continuing!"
+        return result
 
 
 class RemoveProjectTool(Tool, ToolMarkerDoesNotRequireActiveProject, ToolMarkerOptional):
diff --git a/src/serena/tools/workflow_tools.py b/src/serena/tools/workflow_tools.py
index 72be7268..a3a58104 100644
--- a/src/serena/tools/workflow_tools.py
+++ b/src/serena/tools/workflow_tools.py
@@ -132,6 +132,7 @@ class InitialInstructionsTool(Tool, ToolMarkerDoesNotRequireActiveProject):
     def apply(self) -> str:
         """
         Provides the 'Serena Instructions Manual', which contains essential information on how to use the Serena toolbox.
-        Call this tool if you have not yet read this very important manual!
+        IMPORTANT: If you have not yet read the manual, call this tool immediately after you are given your task by the user,
+        as it will critically inform you!
         """
         return self.agent.create_system_prompt()