This easy-to-read publication seeks to contribute to the reflection process on an approach and a set of instruments that are geared towards the evolution in development thinking and practice. The note first argues why a gender dimension is best integrated into the evolving aid modalities.  The extent to which PRSPs and SWAPs in practice take into account lessons learned is examined. Finally, the note discusses a number of avenues for making the new forms of aid more gender-sensitive, taking into account the basic principles of the new aid instruments.