📖 How to Use This Tool

The Exclusion Filter works alongside the Relationship-Budget Matrix. After generating gift directions with Tool A, use this tool to remove categories that don't fit the recipient.

  1. Select Exclusions — Click on the category chips to exclude them. You can exclude up to 5 categories. Click again to deselect.
  2. Choose Relationship & Budget — Select the same (or different) relationship and budget you used in Tool A. Experiment with different combinations.
  3. Generate Filtered Results — Click "Filter Gift Directions" to see only the suggestions that don't belong to any excluded category.
  4. Iterate — If too many suggestions are filtered out, try removing some exclusions or adjusting the budget range.

💡 This tool outputs gift directions — categories and ideas — never specific brands or product links. No affiliate relationships exist.

Demo Case: Close Friend • $50–$100 • Exclude Food, Clothing, Handmade
Imagine your close friend doesn't need anything in Food, Clothing, or Handmade categories. By excluding these, the filter narrows suggestions to Electronics, Experiences, Subscriptions, and similar categories that might be more exciting.

Step 1: Choose Exclusions

Click to toggle — max 5 categories

Step 2: Select Parameters

FAQ

Why can I only exclude 5 categories?+
There are 10 exclusion categories total. Limiting to 5 ensures you still get meaningful suggestions. If you exclude too many, the pool of remaining gift directions becomes too small to be useful.
What categories cannot be excluded?+
"Personal & Sentimental" and "DIY & Fun" categories are not part of the exclusion system since they overlap with multiple categories. All 10 major product/service categories can be excluded.
Can I run this without using Tool A first?+
Yes. The Exclusion Filter includes its own relationship and budget selectors, so it works as a standalone tool. However, for best results, use Tool A first to understand the baseline suggestions.
What if all suggestions are filtered out?+
This means your exclusions are too broad for the selected relationship and budget. Try removing some exclusions, or choose a different budget range that offers more variety.
Do you track my exclusions?+
No. All filtering happens locally in your browser. We do not store, track, or transmit your selections. No data leaves your device.