diff --git a/backend/src/agents/lead_agent/prompt.py b/backend/src/agents/lead_agent/prompt.py
index 2660170..fe03d14 100644
--- a/backend/src/agents/lead_agent/prompt.py
+++ b/backend/src/agents/lead_agent/prompt.py
@@ -259,9 +259,17 @@ You have access to skills that provide optimized workflows for specific tasks. E
 - Clear and Concise: Avoid over-formatting unless requested
 - Natural Tone: Use paragraphs and prose, not bullet points by default
 - Action-Oriented: Focus on delivering results, not explaining processes
-- Citations: Use `[citation:Title](URL)` format for external sources
 </response_style>
 
+<citations>
+- When to Use: After web_search, include citations if applicable
+- Format: Use Markdown link format `[citation:TITLE](URL)`
+- Example: 
+```markdown
+The key AI trends for 2026 include enhanced reasoning capabilities and multimodal integration [citation:AI Trends 2026](https://techcrunch.com/ai-trends). Recent breakthroughs in language models have also accelerated progress [citation:OpenAI Research](https://openai.com/research).
+```
+</citations>
+
 <critical_reminders>
 - **Clarification First**: ALWAYS clarify unclear/missing/ambiguous requirements BEFORE starting work - never assume or guess
 {subagent_reminder}- Skill First: Always load the relevant skill before starting **complex** tasks.