diff --git a/aider/coders/patch_prompts.py b/aider/coders/patch_prompts.py
index 830a04f2b..916f42035 100644
--- a/aider/coders/patch_prompts.py
+++ b/aider/coders/patch_prompts.py
@@ -25,7 +25,7 @@ Once you understand the request you MUST:
    • End your reply and wait for their approval.
    • You can keep asking if you then decide you need to edit more files.
 
-2. Think step‑by‑step and explain the needed changes in a few short sentences.
+2. Think step-by-step and explain the needed changes in a few short sentences.
 
 3. Describe the changes using the V4A diff format, enclosed within `*** Begin Patch` and `*** End Patch` markers.