@fission-ai/openspec 1.6.0 → 1.7.0

package/dist/core/templates/workflows/continue-change.js

@@ -11,11 +11,14 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 **Steps**
 
-1. **If no change name provided, prompt for selection**
+1. **Select the change**
 
-   Run \`openspec list --json\` to get available changes sorted by most recently modified. Then use the **AskUserQuestion tool** to let the user select which change to work on.
+   If a name is provided, use it. Otherwise:
+   - Infer from conversation context if the user mentioned a change
+   - Auto-select if only one active change exists
+   - If ambiguous, run \`openspec list --json\` to get available changes sorted by most recently modified, and ask the user to select one
 
-   Present the top 3-4 most recently modified changes as options, showing:
+   When prompting, present the top 3-4 most recently modified changes as options, showing:
    - Change name
    - Schema (from \`schema\` field if present, otherwise "spec-driven")
    - Status (e.g., "0/5 tasks", "complete", "no tasks")
@@ -23,7 +26,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
    Mark the most recently modified change as "(Recommended)" since it's likely what the user wants to continue.
 
-   **IMPORTANT**: Do NOT guess or auto-select a change. Always let the user choose.
+   Always announce: "Using change: <name>" and how to override (e.g., \`/opsx:continue <other>\`).
 
 2. **Check current status**
    \`\`\`bash
@@ -31,7 +34,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
    \`\`\`
    Parse the JSON to understand current state. The response includes:
    - \`schemaName\`: The workflow schema being used (e.g., "spec-driven")
-   - \`artifacts\`: Array of artifacts with their status ("done", "ready", "blocked")
+   - \`artifacts\`: Array of artifacts with their status ("done", "skipped", "ready", "blocked")
    - \`isComplete\`: Boolean indicating if all artifacts are complete
    - \`planningHome\`, \`changeRoot\`, \`artifactPaths\`, and \`actionContext\`: path and scope context. Use these instead of assuming repo-local paths.
 
@@ -59,10 +62,12 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
      - \`template\`: The structure to use for your output file
      - \`instruction\`: Schema-specific guidance
      - \`resolvedOutputPath\`: Resolved path or pattern to write the artifact
-     - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context
+     - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context (entries with \`skipped: true\` have no files - do not look for them)
+     - \`skipped\`/\`warning\`: present when the change declares skip_specs and this artifact must NOT be created - pick another artifact
    - **Create the artifact file**:
-     - Read any completed dependency files for context
-     - Use \`template\` as the structure - fill in its sections
+     - Read any completed dependency files for context - always re-read them from disk, even if you saw them earlier in the conversation (the user may have edited them)
+     - If the \`instruction\` field delegates creation to a specific skill or command, invoke it to produce the artifact instead of writing the file yourself, then verify the artifact file exists at \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+     - Otherwise use \`template\` as the structure - fill in its sections
      - Apply \`context\` and \`rules\` as constraints when writing - but do NOT copy them into the file
      - Write to the \`resolvedOutputPath\` specified in instructions. If it is a glob pattern, choose the concrete file path using the schema instruction and the change's context
    - Show what was created and what's now unlocked
@@ -90,22 +95,13 @@ After each invocation, show:
 
 **Artifact Creation Guidelines**
 
-The artifact types and their purpose depend on the schema. Use the \`instruction\` field from the instructions output to understand what to create.
+The artifact types and their purpose depend on the schema. The \`instruction\` field from the instructions output is the authoritative guidance for each artifact - follow it even when the artifact has a familiar name (proposal.md, tasks.md, etc.), since custom schemas may define different content or a different process for the same file names.
 
-Common artifact patterns:
-
-**spec-driven schema** (proposal → specs → design → tasks):
-- **proposal.md**: Ask user about the change if not clear. Fill in Why, What Changes, Capabilities, Impact.
-  - The Capabilities section is critical - each capability listed will need a spec file.
-- **specs/<capability>/spec.md**: Create one spec per capability listed in the proposal's Capabilities section (use the capability name, not the change name).
-- **design.md**: Document technical decisions, architecture, and implementation approach.
-- **tasks.md**: Break down implementation into checkboxed tasks.
-
-For other schemas, follow the \`instruction\` field from the CLI output.
+If the \`instruction\` field directs you to use a specific skill or command to create the artifact, invoke it instead of writing the artifact directly.
 
 **Guardrails**
 - Create ONE artifact per invocation
-- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one
+- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one - re-read from disk, not from conversation memory (files may have changed since you last saw them)
 - Never skip artifacts or create out of order
 - If context is unclear, ask the user before creating
 - Verify the artifact file exists after writing before marking progress
@@ -132,11 +128,14 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 **Steps**
 
-1. **If no change name provided, prompt for selection**
+1. **Select the change**
 
-   Run \`openspec list --json\` to get available changes sorted by most recently modified. Then use the **AskUserQuestion tool** to let the user select which change to work on.
+   If a name is provided, use it. Otherwise:
+   - Infer from conversation context if the user mentioned a change
+   - Auto-select if only one active change exists
+   - If ambiguous, run \`openspec list --json\` to get available changes sorted by most recently modified, and ask the user to select one
 
-   Present the top 3-4 most recently modified changes as options, showing:
+   When prompting, present the top 3-4 most recently modified changes as options, showing:
    - Change name
    - Schema (from \`schema\` field if present, otherwise "spec-driven")
    - Status (e.g., "0/5 tasks", "complete", "no tasks")
@@ -144,7 +143,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
    Mark the most recently modified change as "(Recommended)" since it's likely what the user wants to continue.
 
-   **IMPORTANT**: Do NOT guess or auto-select a change. Always let the user choose.
+   Always announce: "Using change: <name>" and how to override (e.g., \`/opsx:continue <other>\`).
 
 2. **Check current status**
    \`\`\`bash
@@ -152,7 +151,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
    \`\`\`
    Parse the JSON to understand current state. The response includes:
    - \`schemaName\`: The workflow schema being used (e.g., "spec-driven")
-   - \`artifacts\`: Array of artifacts with their status ("done", "ready", "blocked")
+   - \`artifacts\`: Array of artifacts with their status ("done", "skipped", "ready", "blocked")
    - \`isComplete\`: Boolean indicating if all artifacts are complete
    - \`planningHome\`, \`changeRoot\`, \`artifactPaths\`, and \`actionContext\`: path and scope context. Use these instead of assuming repo-local paths.
 
@@ -180,10 +179,12 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
      - \`template\`: The structure to use for your output file
      - \`instruction\`: Schema-specific guidance
      - \`resolvedOutputPath\`: Resolved path or pattern to write the artifact
-     - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context
+     - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context (entries with \`skipped: true\` have no files - do not look for them)
+     - \`skipped\`/\`warning\`: present when the change declares skip_specs and this artifact must NOT be created - pick another artifact
    - **Create the artifact file**:
-     - Read any completed dependency files for context
-     - Use \`template\` as the structure - fill in its sections
+     - Read any completed dependency files for context - always re-read them from disk, even if you saw them earlier in the conversation (the user may have edited them)
+     - If the \`instruction\` field delegates creation to a specific skill or command, invoke it to produce the artifact instead of writing the file yourself, then verify the artifact file exists at \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+     - Otherwise use \`template\` as the structure - fill in its sections
      - Apply \`context\` and \`rules\` as constraints when writing - but do NOT copy them into the file
      - Write to the \`resolvedOutputPath\` specified in instructions. If it is a glob pattern, choose the concrete file path using the schema instruction and the change's context
    - Show what was created and what's now unlocked
@@ -211,22 +212,13 @@ After each invocation, show:
 
 **Artifact Creation Guidelines**
 
-The artifact types and their purpose depend on the schema. Use the \`instruction\` field from the instructions output to understand what to create.
-
-Common artifact patterns:
-
-**spec-driven schema** (proposal → specs → design → tasks):
-- **proposal.md**: Ask user about the change if not clear. Fill in Why, What Changes, Capabilities, Impact.
-  - The Capabilities section is critical - each capability listed will need a spec file.
-- **specs/<capability>/spec.md**: Create one spec per capability listed in the proposal's Capabilities section (use the capability name, not the change name).
-- **design.md**: Document technical decisions, architecture, and implementation approach.
-- **tasks.md**: Break down implementation into checkboxed tasks.
+The artifact types and their purpose depend on the schema. The \`instruction\` field from the instructions output is the authoritative guidance for each artifact - follow it even when the artifact has a familiar name (proposal.md, tasks.md, etc.), since custom schemas may define different content or a different process for the same file names.
 
-For other schemas, follow the \`instruction\` field from the CLI output.
+If the \`instruction\` field directs you to use a specific skill or command to create the artifact, invoke it instead of writing the artifact directly.
 
 **Guardrails**
 - Create ONE artifact per invocation
-- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one
+- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one - re-read from disk, not from conversation memory (files may have changed since you last saw them)
 - Never skip artifacts or create out of order
 - If context is unclear, ask the user before creating
 - Verify the artifact file exists after writing before marking progress

package/dist/core/templates/workflows/explore.js

@@ -87,6 +87,12 @@ This tells you:
 - Their names, schemas, and status
 - What the user might be working on
 
+Then read the project's own context from the resolved root - \`<root.path>/openspec/config.yaml\` (or \`config.yml\`). Use the \`root.path\` returned above, and skip this if neither file exists:
+- \`context\`: project background - tech stack, conventions, constraints
+- \`rules\`: keyed by artifact id - the entries for an artifact apply only when you write that artifact
+
+Ground your thinking in these. They are constraints for you to follow, not content to reproduce: do NOT copy them into the conversation or into any artifact you create.
+
 ### When no change exists
 
 Think freely. When insights crystallize, you might offer:
@@ -383,6 +389,12 @@ This tells you:
 - Their names, schemas, and status
 - What the user might be working on
 
+Then read the project's own context from the resolved root - \`<root.path>/openspec/config.yaml\` (or \`config.yml\`). Use the \`root.path\` returned above, and skip this if neither file exists:
+- \`context\`: project background - tech stack, conventions, constraints
+- \`rules\`: keyed by artifact id - the entries for an artifact apply only when you write that artifact
+
+Ground your thinking in these. They are constraints for you to follow, not content to reproduce: do NOT copy them into the conversation or into any artifact you create.
+
 If the user mentioned a specific change name, read its artifacts for context.
 
 ### When no change exists

package/dist/core/templates/workflows/ff-change.js

@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 1. **If no clear input provided, ask what they want to build**
 
-   Use the **AskUserQuestion tool** (open-ended, no preset options) to ask:
+   Ask the user (open-ended, no preset options):
    > "What change do you want to work on? Describe what you want to build or fix."
 
    From their description, derive a kebab-case name (e.g., "add user authentication" → \`add-user-auth\`).
@@ -32,12 +32,12 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
    \`\`\`
    Parse the JSON to get:
    - \`applyRequires\`: array of artifact IDs needed before implementation (e.g., \`["tasks"]\`)
-   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts with their status and dependencies
+   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts, each with its \`status\` and its \`requires\` edges (the artifact IDs it directly depends on)
    - \`planningHome\`, \`changeRoot\`, \`artifactPaths\`, and \`actionContext\`: path and scope context. Use these instead of assuming repo-local paths.
 
-4. **Create artifacts in sequence until apply-ready**
+4. **Create every artifact in the required set**
 
-   Use the **TodoWrite tool** to track progress through the artifacts.
+   Use a todo list to track progress through the artifacts.
 
    Loop through artifacts in dependency order (artifacts with no pending dependencies first):
 
@@ -51,20 +51,27 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
         - \`rules\`: Artifact-specific rules (constraints for you - do NOT include in output)
         - \`template\`: The structure to use for your output file
         - \`instruction\`: Schema-specific guidance for this artifact type
+        - \`skipped\`/\`warning\`: present when the change declares skip_specs and this artifact must NOT be created - stop and pick another artifact
         - \`resolvedOutputPath\`: Resolved path or pattern to write the artifact
         - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context
-      - Read any completed dependency files for context
-      - Create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Read any completed dependency files for context - always re-read them from disk, even if you saw them earlier in the conversation (the user may have edited them)
+      - If the \`instruction\` field delegates creation to a specific skill or command, invoke it to produce the artifact instead of writing the file yourself, then verify the artifact file exists at \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Otherwise create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`. If \`resolvedOutputPath\` is a glob, follow \`instruction\` to choose the concrete file path
       - Apply \`context\` and \`rules\` as constraints - but do NOT copy them into the file
       - Show brief progress: "✓ Created <artifact-id>"
 
-   b. **Continue until all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are complete**
+   b. **Continue until every artifact in the required set exists (not just \`apply.requires\`)**
       - After creating each artifact, re-run \`openspec status --change "<name>" --json\`
-      - Check if every artifact ID in \`applyRequires\` has \`status: "done"\` in the artifacts array
-      - Stop when all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are done
+      - The required set is \`applyRequires\` plus every artifact reachable from those by following the \`requires\` edges in \`status --json\` - walk them transitively (spec-driven closes over proposal, specs, design, tasks). Leave artifacts outside that set alone
+      - \`status\` is file-existence only, so an \`applyRequires\` artifact reading \`done\` does NOT mean its dependencies exist - writing \`tasks.md\` early marks \`tasks\` done while \`specs\` was never written. Use each artifact's \`requires\` edges, not its \`status\`, to build the required set: a \`done\` artifact still lists what it depends on
+      - An artifact already reading \`status: "skipped"\` is satisfied: the change declares \`skip_specs\` in \`.openspec.yaml\`, so its files must NOT exist. Never try to create one
+      - Create every artifact in the required set that is missing, then re-check - creating one can unblock others
+      - Skip one only when \`status\` already reports it \`skipped\`, or when its own \`instruction\` says it is conditional: run \`openspec instructions <artifact-id> --change "<name>" --json\` and skip only if its \`instruction\` field marks it optional (e.g. "create only if..."). Spec-driven's \`design.md\` qualifies; \`specs\` qualifies only via the \`skipped\` status above, never by your own judgment. Tell the user, and do not reconsider it
+      - Dependencies are enablers, not gates: if a required artifact is still \`blocked\` only because you skipped a conditional dependency, write it anyway
+      - Stop when every artifact in the required set is \`done\`, \`skipped\`, or was deliberately skipped
 
    c. **If an artifact requires user input** (unclear context):
-      - Use **AskUserQuestion tool** to clarify
+      - Ask the user to clarify
       - Then continue with creation
 
 5. **Show final status**
@@ -76,13 +83,14 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 After completing all artifacts, summarize:
 - Change name and location
-- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions
-- What's ready: "All artifacts created! Ready for implementation."
+- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions, plus any conditional artifact you skipped and why
+- What's ready: "All artifacts needed for implementation are ready."
 - Prompt: "Run \`/opsx:apply\` or ask me to implement to start working on the tasks."
 
 **Artifact Creation Guidelines**
 
-- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type
+- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type - it is the authoritative guidance, even for familiar artifact names
+- If the \`instruction\` field directs you to use a specific skill or command to create the artifact, invoke it instead of writing the artifact directly
 - The schema defines what each artifact should contain - follow it
 - Read dependency artifacts for context before creating new ones
 - Use \`template\` as the structure for your output file - fill in its sections
@@ -91,8 +99,8 @@ After completing all artifacts, summarize:
   - These guide what you write, but should never appear in the output
 
 **Guardrails**
-- Create ALL artifacts needed for implementation (as defined by schema's \`apply.requires\`)
-- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one
+- Create every artifact the apply phase transitively depends on, not just the ids listed in \`apply.requires\`
+- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one - re-read from disk, not from conversation memory (files may have changed since you last saw them)
 - If context is critically unclear, ask the user - but prefer making reasonable decisions to keep momentum
 - If a change with that name already exists, suggest continuing that change instead
 - Verify each artifact file exists after writing before proceeding to next`,
@@ -117,7 +125,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 1. **If no input provided, ask what they want to build**
 
-   Use the **AskUserQuestion tool** (open-ended, no preset options) to ask:
+   Ask the user (open-ended, no preset options):
    > "What change do you want to work on? Describe what you want to build or fix."
 
    From their description, derive a kebab-case name (e.g., "add user authentication" → \`add-user-auth\`).
@@ -136,12 +144,12 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
    \`\`\`
    Parse the JSON to get:
    - \`applyRequires\`: array of artifact IDs needed before implementation (e.g., \`["tasks"]\`)
-   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts with their status and dependencies
+   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts, each with its \`status\` and its \`requires\` edges (the artifact IDs it directly depends on)
    - \`planningHome\`, \`changeRoot\`, \`artifactPaths\`, and \`actionContext\`: path and scope context. Use these instead of assuming repo-local paths.
 
-4. **Create artifacts in sequence until apply-ready**
+4. **Create every artifact in the required set**
 
-   Use the **TodoWrite tool** to track progress through the artifacts.
+   Use a todo list to track progress through the artifacts.
 
    Loop through artifacts in dependency order (artifacts with no pending dependencies first):
 
@@ -155,20 +163,27 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
         - \`rules\`: Artifact-specific rules (constraints for you - do NOT include in output)
         - \`template\`: The structure to use for your output file
         - \`instruction\`: Schema-specific guidance for this artifact type
+        - \`skipped\`/\`warning\`: present when the change declares skip_specs and this artifact must NOT be created - stop and pick another artifact
         - \`resolvedOutputPath\`: Resolved path or pattern to write the artifact
         - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context
-      - Read any completed dependency files for context
-      - Create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Read any completed dependency files for context - always re-read them from disk, even if you saw them earlier in the conversation (the user may have edited them)
+      - If the \`instruction\` field delegates creation to a specific skill or command, invoke it to produce the artifact instead of writing the file yourself, then verify the artifact file exists at \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Otherwise create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`. If \`resolvedOutputPath\` is a glob, follow \`instruction\` to choose the concrete file path
       - Apply \`context\` and \`rules\` as constraints - but do NOT copy them into the file
       - Show brief progress: "✓ Created <artifact-id>"
 
-   b. **Continue until all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are complete**
+   b. **Continue until every artifact in the required set exists (not just \`apply.requires\`)**
       - After creating each artifact, re-run \`openspec status --change "<name>" --json\`
-      - Check if every artifact ID in \`applyRequires\` has \`status: "done"\` in the artifacts array
-      - Stop when all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are done
+      - The required set is \`applyRequires\` plus every artifact reachable from those by following the \`requires\` edges in \`status --json\` - walk them transitively (spec-driven closes over proposal, specs, design, tasks). Leave artifacts outside that set alone
+      - \`status\` is file-existence only, so an \`applyRequires\` artifact reading \`done\` does NOT mean its dependencies exist - writing \`tasks.md\` early marks \`tasks\` done while \`specs\` was never written. Use each artifact's \`requires\` edges, not its \`status\`, to build the required set: a \`done\` artifact still lists what it depends on
+      - An artifact already reading \`status: "skipped"\` is satisfied: the change declares \`skip_specs\` in \`.openspec.yaml\`, so its files must NOT exist. Never try to create one
+      - Create every artifact in the required set that is missing, then re-check - creating one can unblock others
+      - Skip one only when \`status\` already reports it \`skipped\`, or when its own \`instruction\` says it is conditional: run \`openspec instructions <artifact-id> --change "<name>" --json\` and skip only if its \`instruction\` field marks it optional (e.g. "create only if..."). Spec-driven's \`design.md\` qualifies; \`specs\` qualifies only via the \`skipped\` status above, never by your own judgment. Tell the user, and do not reconsider it
+      - Dependencies are enablers, not gates: if a required artifact is still \`blocked\` only because you skipped a conditional dependency, write it anyway
+      - Stop when every artifact in the required set is \`done\`, \`skipped\`, or was deliberately skipped
 
    c. **If an artifact requires user input** (unclear context):
-      - Use **AskUserQuestion tool** to clarify
+      - Ask the user to clarify
       - Then continue with creation
 
 5. **Show final status**
@@ -180,13 +195,14 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 After completing all artifacts, summarize:
 - Change name and location
-- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions
-- What's ready: "All artifacts created! Ready for implementation."
+- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions, plus any conditional artifact you skipped and why
+- What's ready: "All artifacts needed for implementation are ready."
 - Prompt: "Run \`/opsx:apply\` to start implementing."
 
 **Artifact Creation Guidelines**
 
-- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type
+- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type - it is the authoritative guidance, even for familiar artifact names
+- If the \`instruction\` field directs you to use a specific skill or command to create the artifact, invoke it instead of writing the artifact directly
 - The schema defines what each artifact should contain - follow it
 - Read dependency artifacts for context before creating new ones
 - Use \`template\` as the structure for your output file - fill in its sections
@@ -195,8 +211,8 @@ After completing all artifacts, summarize:
   - These guide what you write, but should never appear in the output
 
 **Guardrails**
-- Create ALL artifacts needed for implementation (as defined by schema's \`apply.requires\`)
-- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one
+- Create every artifact the apply phase transitively depends on, not just the ids listed in \`apply.requires\`
+- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one - re-read from disk, not from conversation memory (files may have changed since you last saw them)
 - If context is critically unclear, ask the user - but prefer making reasonable decisions to keep momentum
 - If a change with that name already exists, ask if user wants to continue it or create a new one
 - Verify each artifact file exists after writing before proceeding to next`

package/dist/core/templates/workflows/new-change.js

@@ -13,7 +13,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 1. **If no clear input provided, ask what they want to build**
 
-   Use the **AskUserQuestion tool** (open-ended, no preset options) to ask:
+   Ask the user (open-ended, no preset options):
    > "What change do you want to work on? Describe what you want to build or fix."
 
    From their description, derive a kebab-case name (e.g., "add user authentication" → \`add-user-auth\`).
@@ -89,7 +89,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 1. **If no input provided, ask what they want to build**
 
-   Use the **AskUserQuestion tool** (open-ended, no preset options) to ask:
+   Ask the user (open-ended, no preset options):
    > "What change do you want to work on? Describe what you want to build or fix."
 
    From their description, derive a kebab-case name (e.g., "add user authentication" → \`add-user-auth\`).

package/dist/core/templates/workflows/onboard.js

@@ -438,7 +438,7 @@ openspec archive "<name>"
 
 **SHOW:**
 \`\`\`
-Archived to: \`<planningHome.changesDir>/archive/YYYY-MM-DD-<name>/\`
+Archived to: \`<planningHome.changesDir>/archive/<target-name>/\` (the target name prepends today's date, unless the name already starts with a \`YYYY-MM-DD-\` prefix — then it is kept as-is, no second date)
 
 The change is now part of your project's history. The code is in your codebase, the decision record is preserved.
 \`\`\`
@@ -476,7 +476,7 @@ This same rhythm works for any size change—a small fix or a major feature.
  | \`/opsx:apply\`   | Implement tasks from a change              |
  | \`/opsx:archive\` | Archive a completed change                 |
 
-**Additional commands:**
+**Additional commands** (only if installed - availability depends on your profile):
 
  | Command            | What it does                                             |
  |--------------------|----------------------------------------------------------|
@@ -504,7 +504,7 @@ If the user says they need to stop, want to pause, or seem disengaged:
 No problem! Your change is saved at the \`changeRoot\` reported by \`openspec status --change "<name>" --json\`.
 
 To pick up where we left off later:
-- \`/opsx:continue <name>\` - Resume artifact creation
+- \`/opsx:continue <name>\` - Resume artifact creation (if installed; otherwise \`openspec status --change "<name>" --json\` shows the next artifact)
 - \`/opsx:apply <name>\` - Jump to implementation (if tasks exist)
 
 The work won't be lost. Come back whenever you're ready.
@@ -528,7 +528,7 @@ If the user says they just want to see the commands or skip the tutorial:
  | \`/opsx:apply <name>\`   | Implement tasks                            |
  | \`/opsx:archive <name>\` | Archive when done                          |
 
-**Additional commands:**
+**Additional commands** (only if installed - availability depends on your profile):
 
  | Command                   | What it does                        |
  |---------------------------|-------------------------------------|

package/dist/core/templates/workflows/propose.js

@@ -5,8 +5,9 @@ export function getOpsxProposeSkillTemplate() {
         description: 'Propose a new change with all artifacts generated in one step. Use when the user wants to quickly describe what they want to build and get a complete proposal with design, specs, and tasks ready for implementation.',
         instructions: `Propose a new change - create the change and generate all artifacts in one step.
 
-I'll create a change with artifacts:
+I'll create a change with the artifacts your schema defines. With the default spec-driven schema that is:
 - proposal.md (what & why)
+- \`specs/<capability>/spec.md\` (what the system must do - a delta, not the main spec)
 - design.md (how)
 - tasks.md (implementation steps)
 
@@ -22,7 +23,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 1. **If no clear input provided, ask what they want to build**
 
-   Use the **AskUserQuestion tool** (open-ended, no preset options) to ask:
+   Ask the user (open-ended, no preset options):
    > "What change do you want to work on? Describe what you want to build or fix."
 
    From their description, derive a kebab-case name (e.g., "add user authentication" → \`add-user-auth\`).
@@ -41,12 +42,12 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
    \`\`\`
    Parse the JSON to get:
    - \`applyRequires\`: array of artifact IDs needed before implementation (e.g., \`["tasks"]\`)
-   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts with their status and dependencies
+   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts, each with its \`status\` and its \`requires\` edges (the artifact IDs it directly depends on)
    - \`planningHome\`, \`changeRoot\`, \`artifactPaths\`, and \`actionContext\`: path and scope context. Use these instead of assuming repo-local paths.
 
-4. **Create artifacts in sequence until apply-ready**
+4. **Create every artifact in the required set**
 
-   Use the **TodoWrite tool** to track progress through the artifacts.
+   Use a todo list to track progress through the artifacts.
 
    Loop through artifacts in dependency order (artifacts with no pending dependencies first):
 
@@ -60,20 +61,27 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
         - \`rules\`: Artifact-specific rules (constraints for you - do NOT include in output)
         - \`template\`: The structure to use for your output file
         - \`instruction\`: Schema-specific guidance for this artifact type
+        - \`skipped\`/\`warning\`: present when the change declares skip_specs and this artifact must NOT be created - stop and pick another artifact
         - \`resolvedOutputPath\`: Resolved path or pattern to write the artifact
         - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context
-      - Read any completed dependency files for context
-      - Create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Read any completed dependency files for context - always re-read them from disk, even if you saw them earlier in the conversation (the user may have edited them)
+      - If the \`instruction\` field delegates creation to a specific skill or command, invoke it to produce the artifact instead of writing the file yourself, then verify the artifact file exists at \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Otherwise create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`. If \`resolvedOutputPath\` is a glob, follow \`instruction\` to choose the concrete file path
       - Apply \`context\` and \`rules\` as constraints - but do NOT copy them into the file
       - Show brief progress: "Created <artifact-id>"
 
-   b. **Continue until all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are complete**
+   b. **Continue until every artifact in the required set exists (not just \`apply.requires\`)**
       - After creating each artifact, re-run \`openspec status --change "<name>" --json\`
-      - Check if every artifact ID in \`applyRequires\` has \`status: "done"\` in the artifacts array
-      - Stop when all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are done
+      - The required set is \`applyRequires\` plus every artifact reachable from those by following the \`requires\` edges in \`status --json\` - walk them transitively (spec-driven closes over proposal, specs, design, tasks). Leave artifacts outside that set alone
+      - \`status\` is file-existence only, so an \`applyRequires\` artifact reading \`done\` does NOT mean its dependencies exist - writing \`tasks.md\` early marks \`tasks\` done while \`specs\` was never written. Use each artifact's \`requires\` edges, not its \`status\`, to build the required set: a \`done\` artifact still lists what it depends on
+      - An artifact already reading \`status: "skipped"\` is satisfied: the change declares \`skip_specs\` in \`.openspec.yaml\`, so its files must NOT exist. Never try to create one
+      - Create every artifact in the required set that is missing, then re-check - creating one can unblock others
+      - Skip one only when \`status\` already reports it \`skipped\`, or when its own \`instruction\` says it is conditional: run \`openspec instructions <artifact-id> --change "<name>" --json\` and skip only if its \`instruction\` field marks it optional (e.g. "create only if..."). Spec-driven's \`design.md\` qualifies; \`specs\` qualifies only via the \`skipped\` status above, never by your own judgment. Tell the user, and do not reconsider it
+      - Dependencies are enablers, not gates: if a required artifact is still \`blocked\` only because you skipped a conditional dependency, write it anyway
+      - Stop when every artifact in the required set is \`done\`, \`skipped\`, or was deliberately skipped
 
    c. **If an artifact requires user input** (unclear context):
-      - Use **AskUserQuestion tool** to clarify
+      - Ask the user to clarify
       - Then continue with creation
 
 5. **Show final status**
@@ -85,13 +93,14 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 After completing all artifacts, summarize:
 - Change name and location
-- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions
-- What's ready: "All artifacts created! Ready for implementation."
+- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions, plus any conditional artifact you skipped and why
+- What's ready: "All artifacts needed for implementation are ready."
 - Prompt: "Run \`/opsx:apply\` or ask me to implement to start working on the tasks."
 
 **Artifact Creation Guidelines**
 
-- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type
+- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type - it is the authoritative guidance, even for familiar artifact names
+- If the \`instruction\` field directs you to use a specific skill or command to create the artifact, invoke it instead of writing the artifact directly
 - The schema defines what each artifact should contain - follow it
 - Read dependency artifacts for context before creating new ones
 - Use \`template\` as the structure for your output file - fill in its sections
@@ -100,8 +109,8 @@ After completing all artifacts, summarize:
   - These guide what you write, but should never appear in the output
 
 **Guardrails**
-- Create ALL artifacts needed for implementation (as defined by schema's \`apply.requires\`)
-- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one
+- Create every artifact the apply phase transitively depends on, not just the ids listed in \`apply.requires\`
+- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one - re-read from disk, not from conversation memory (files may have changed since you last saw them)
 - If context is critically unclear, ask the user - but prefer making reasonable decisions to keep momentum
 - If a change with that name already exists, ask if user wants to continue it or create a new one
 - Verify each artifact file exists after writing before proceeding to next`,
@@ -118,8 +127,9 @@ export function getOpsxProposeCommandTemplate() {
         tags: ['workflow', 'artifacts', 'experimental'],
         content: `Propose a new change - create the change and generate all artifacts in one step.
 
-I'll create a change with artifacts:
+I'll create a change with the artifacts your schema defines. With the default spec-driven schema that is:
 - proposal.md (what & why)
+- \`specs/<capability>/spec.md\` (what the system must do - a delta, not the main spec)
 - design.md (how)
 - tasks.md (implementation steps)
 
@@ -135,7 +145,7 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 1. **If no input provided, ask what they want to build**
 
-   Use the **AskUserQuestion tool** (open-ended, no preset options) to ask:
+   Ask the user (open-ended, no preset options):
    > "What change do you want to work on? Describe what you want to build or fix."
 
    From their description, derive a kebab-case name (e.g., "add user authentication" → \`add-user-auth\`).
@@ -154,12 +164,12 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
    \`\`\`
    Parse the JSON to get:
    - \`applyRequires\`: array of artifact IDs needed before implementation (e.g., \`["tasks"]\`)
-   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts with their status and dependencies
+   - \`artifacts\`: list of all artifacts, each with its \`status\` and its \`requires\` edges (the artifact IDs it directly depends on)
    - \`planningHome\`, \`changeRoot\`, \`artifactPaths\`, and \`actionContext\`: path and scope context. Use these instead of assuming repo-local paths.
 
-4. **Create artifacts in sequence until apply-ready**
+4. **Create every artifact in the required set**
 
-   Use the **TodoWrite tool** to track progress through the artifacts.
+   Use a todo list to track progress through the artifacts.
 
    Loop through artifacts in dependency order (artifacts with no pending dependencies first):
 
@@ -173,20 +183,27 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
         - \`rules\`: Artifact-specific rules (constraints for you - do NOT include in output)
         - \`template\`: The structure to use for your output file
         - \`instruction\`: Schema-specific guidance for this artifact type
+        - \`skipped\`/\`warning\`: present when the change declares skip_specs and this artifact must NOT be created - stop and pick another artifact
         - \`resolvedOutputPath\`: Resolved path or pattern to write the artifact
         - \`dependencies\`: Completed artifacts to read for context
-      - Read any completed dependency files for context
-      - Create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Read any completed dependency files for context - always re-read them from disk, even if you saw them earlier in the conversation (the user may have edited them)
+      - If the \`instruction\` field delegates creation to a specific skill or command, invoke it to produce the artifact instead of writing the file yourself, then verify the artifact file exists at \`resolvedOutputPath\`
+      - Otherwise create the artifact file using \`template\` as the structure and write it to \`resolvedOutputPath\`. If \`resolvedOutputPath\` is a glob, follow \`instruction\` to choose the concrete file path
       - Apply \`context\` and \`rules\` as constraints - but do NOT copy them into the file
       - Show brief progress: "Created <artifact-id>"
 
-   b. **Continue until all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are complete**
+   b. **Continue until every artifact in the required set exists (not just \`apply.requires\`)**
       - After creating each artifact, re-run \`openspec status --change "<name>" --json\`
-      - Check if every artifact ID in \`applyRequires\` has \`status: "done"\` in the artifacts array
-      - Stop when all \`applyRequires\` artifacts are done
+      - The required set is \`applyRequires\` plus every artifact reachable from those by following the \`requires\` edges in \`status --json\` - walk them transitively (spec-driven closes over proposal, specs, design, tasks). Leave artifacts outside that set alone
+      - \`status\` is file-existence only, so an \`applyRequires\` artifact reading \`done\` does NOT mean its dependencies exist - writing \`tasks.md\` early marks \`tasks\` done while \`specs\` was never written. Use each artifact's \`requires\` edges, not its \`status\`, to build the required set: a \`done\` artifact still lists what it depends on
+      - An artifact already reading \`status: "skipped"\` is satisfied: the change declares \`skip_specs\` in \`.openspec.yaml\`, so its files must NOT exist. Never try to create one
+      - Create every artifact in the required set that is missing, then re-check - creating one can unblock others
+      - Skip one only when \`status\` already reports it \`skipped\`, or when its own \`instruction\` says it is conditional: run \`openspec instructions <artifact-id> --change "<name>" --json\` and skip only if its \`instruction\` field marks it optional (e.g. "create only if..."). Spec-driven's \`design.md\` qualifies; \`specs\` qualifies only via the \`skipped\` status above, never by your own judgment. Tell the user, and do not reconsider it
+      - Dependencies are enablers, not gates: if a required artifact is still \`blocked\` only because you skipped a conditional dependency, write it anyway
+      - Stop when every artifact in the required set is \`done\`, \`skipped\`, or was deliberately skipped
 
    c. **If an artifact requires user input** (unclear context):
-      - Use **AskUserQuestion tool** to clarify
+      - Ask the user to clarify
       - Then continue with creation
 
 5. **Show final status**
@@ -198,13 +215,14 @@ ${STORE_SELECTION_GUIDANCE}
 
 After completing all artifacts, summarize:
 - Change name and location
-- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions
-- What's ready: "All artifacts created! Ready for implementation."
+- List of artifacts created with brief descriptions, plus any conditional artifact you skipped and why
+- What's ready: "All artifacts needed for implementation are ready."
 - Prompt: "Run \`/opsx:apply\` to start implementing."
 
 **Artifact Creation Guidelines**
 
-- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type
+- Follow the \`instruction\` field from \`openspec instructions\` for each artifact type - it is the authoritative guidance, even for familiar artifact names
+- If the \`instruction\` field directs you to use a specific skill or command to create the artifact, invoke it instead of writing the artifact directly
 - The schema defines what each artifact should contain - follow it
 - Read dependency artifacts for context before creating new ones
 - Use \`template\` as the structure for your output file - fill in its sections
@@ -213,8 +231,8 @@ After completing all artifacts, summarize:
   - These guide what you write, but should never appear in the output
 
 **Guardrails**
-- Create ALL artifacts needed for implementation (as defined by schema's \`apply.requires\`)
-- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one
+- Create every artifact the apply phase transitively depends on, not just the ids listed in \`apply.requires\`
+- Always read dependency artifacts before creating a new one - re-read from disk, not from conversation memory (files may have changed since you last saw them)
 - If context is critically unclear, ask the user - but prefer making reasonable decisions to keep momentum
 - If a change with that name already exists, ask if user wants to continue it or create a new one
 - Verify each artifact file exists after writing before proceeding to next`