@superclaude-org/superflag 3.1.2 → 3.1.5

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package/flags.yaml CHANGED
@@ -1,12 +1,14 @@
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- # SuperFlag - Optimized Version
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- # Scientific Prompt Engineering + Philosophical Wisdom
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+ # SuperFlag v4.0.0 - 3-Layer Architecture
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+ # Layer 1: Global Enforcement (meta_instructions)
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+ # Layer 2: Per-flag <constraint id="..."> blocks
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+ # Layer 3: Per-flag <verify> checklists
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  # ========================================
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  # MCP Server Configuration
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  # ========================================
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  server:
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  name: "@superclaude-org/superflag"
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- description: "SuperFlag - MCP-based flag system with scientific optimization"
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+ description: "SuperFlag - MCP-based flag system with 3-Layer constraint architecture"
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  mcp:
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  tools:
@@ -14,41 +16,84 @@ mcp:
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  - "get-directives"
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  # ========================================
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- # Optimized Directive System
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+ # Directive System - 22 Flags
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  # ========================================
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  directives:
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+
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+ # ----------------------------------------
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+ # Analysis & Optimization (5 flags)
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+ # ----------------------------------------
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+
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  "--analyze":
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- brief: "Analyze through pattern, root, and validation lenses"
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+ brief: "Use when multi-perspective analysis is needed before drawing conclusions — applies to code, documents, data, designs, or any subject"
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  directive: |
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  <task>
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- Identify root causes through multi-perspective analysis.
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+ Perform multi-perspective analysis on any subject — code, documents, designs,
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+ data, or systems — before drawing conclusions.
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+ Every claim must be supported by observable evidence, not inference alone.
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+ First identify what type of subject you are analyzing, then derive appropriate perspectives.
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  </task>
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  <approach>
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- 1. Pattern Recognition - discover hidden connections
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- 2. Root Understanding - explain from multiple angles
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- 3. Scientific Validation - test hypotheses systematically
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+ 0. Identify subject type: code / document / data / design / system / other
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+ 1. Derive perspectives: 3 independent angles suited to that type
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+ (code logic/data/behavior | document structure/content/intent | data → pattern/anomaly/trend)
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+ 2. Gather evidence: collect only observable facts from each perspective
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+ 3. Form hypotheses: derive at least 3 candidate causes or patterns from evidence
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+ 4. Rank: order by evidence weight, label each with confidence level (HIGH/MEDIUM/LOW)
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  </approach>
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46
 
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- <example>
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- Bug: Error patterns Code logic Test reproduction
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- Performance: Metrics Bottlenecks Optimization paths
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- Architecture: Components Dependencies Data flow
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- </example>
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+ <constraint id="multi-perspective">
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+ MULTI-PERSPECTIVE REQUIREMENT: Never present a single explanation as definitive.
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+ Identify at least 3 candidate causes before concluding.
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+ Label each with confidence level: HIGH / MEDIUM / LOW + supporting evidence.
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <constraint id="evidence-based">
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+ EVIDENCE-BASED CLAIMS: State what you observed, not what you assume.
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+ Format: "Evidence: [observation] → Hypothesis: [cause] → Test: [verification step]"
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <constraint id="no-single-option">
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+ NO SINGLE-OPTION PROPOSALS: Always present the top 2-3 explanations ranked
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+ by evidence weight. Let the evidence, not preference, determine ranking.
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <do_not_use_when>
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+ - Cause or conclusion is already known → act directly with --strict
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+ - Request is a simple summary or explanation → use --explain instead
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+ - Single-turn Q&A with no ambiguity → answer directly without flags
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+ - Analysis is complete and only implementation remains → use --strict
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+ </do_not_use_when>
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+
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+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
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+ - Mechanically applying "code/data/behavior" angles regardless of subject type
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+ → Instead: identify subject type first, then derive appropriate perspectives
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+ - Using "should", "probably", or "likely" as evidence
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+ → Instead: only use "Evidence: [observation] → Hypothesis: [cause]" format
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+ - Presenting a single hypothesis as the conclusion
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+ → Instead: always rank at least 3 candidates by evidence weight
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+ - Ending analysis without testable verification steps
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+ → Instead: include a reproducible verification step for each hypothesis
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+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
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  <verify>
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- Analyzed from 3+ perspectives
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- Evidence supports each claim
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- Steps are reproducible
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- Others can understand analysis
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+ Subject type identified before analysis began
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+ Analyzed from 3+ independent perspectives suited to that type
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+ Each claim cites specific observable evidence
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+ Multiple hypotheses ranked (not single conclusion)
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+ ☐ Verification steps are reproducible by others
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+ ☐ Confidence levels stated for each finding
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+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not declare analysis complete if any item above is unmet
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  </verify>
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47
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  "--performance":
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- brief: "Optimize performance through measurement and profiling"
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+ brief: "Use when optimizing measurable speed, memory, or throughput — baseline metrics required before any changes"
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  directive: |
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  <task>
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- Optimize for measurable performance improvements.
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+ Achieve measurable, evidence-backed performance improvements.
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+ No optimization is valid without before/after measurement and ROI justification.
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  </task>
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54
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  <philosophy>
@@ -57,58 +102,132 @@ directives:
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  </philosophy>
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103
 
59
104
  <approach>
60
- 1. Measure baseline performance
61
- 2. Profile to find actual bottlenecks
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+ 1. Measure baseline performance with concrete metrics (latency, throughput, memory)
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+ 2. Profile to find actual bottlenecks - do not guess
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107
  3. Optimize the 10% causing 90% slowdown
63
- 4. Verify improvements quantitatively
108
+ 4. Verify improvements quantitatively; report delta and percentage
64
109
  </approach>
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110
 
66
- <example>
67
- GOOD: Profile DB query 2s Add index → 50ms (-97%)
68
- BAD: "Feels slow" Random micro-optimizations
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- </example>
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+ <constraint id="cost-efficiency">
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+ COST-EFFICIENCY AWARENESS: Every optimization has a cost (complexity, maintenance,
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+ API calls, resource consumption). State the cost alongside the gain.
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+ Format: "Gain: [X% improvement] | Cost: [complexity added / resources consumed]"
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <constraint id="roi-required">
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+ ROI CALCULATION REQUIRED: Before implementing any optimization, calculate:
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+ ROI = (performance_gain_value) / (implementation_cost + maintenance_cost)
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+ Only proceed if ROI > 1.0. State the calculation explicitly.
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <constraint id="no-premature-claims">
124
+ NO PREMATURE OPTIMIZATION CLAIMS: Never report an optimization as successful
125
+ before post-implementation measurement. "Should be faster" is not a result.
126
+ A result requires: baseline_metric → optimized_metric → delta.
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+ </constraint>
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+
129
+ <do_not_use_when>
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+ - Performance issue is a hunch with no data → use --analyze first to identify bottlenecks
131
+ - The feature does not yet work correctly → make it work, then optimize
132
+ - Request is "it feels slow" with no metrics → measure first, then use this flag
133
+ </do_not_use_when>
134
+
135
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
136
+ - Starting optimization without a baseline measurement
137
+ → Instead: record baseline metrics first, compare after optimization
138
+ - Declaring success with "should be faster"
139
+ → Instead: present "baseline: Xms → optimized: Yms (Z% improvement)"
140
+ - Introducing complex optimization without ROI check
141
+ → Instead: calculate ROI explicitly and confirm > 1.0 before proceeding
142
+ - Refactoring code unrelated to the identified bottleneck
143
+ → Instead: touch only what profiling confirmed as the bottleneck
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+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
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145
 
71
146
  <verify>
72
- ☐ Baseline measured
73
- ☐ Bottleneck identified with data
74
- ☐ Improvement quantified
75
- No premature optimization
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+ ☐ Baseline measured with specific metric and value
148
+ ☐ Bottleneck identified with profiling data (not assumption)
149
+ ☐ Improvement quantified as before/after delta
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+ Cost (complexity, resources) stated alongside gain
151
+ ☐ ROI calculated and > 1.0 before implementation
152
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not declare optimization complete without measurement evidence
76
153
  </verify>
77
154
 
78
155
  "--refactor":
79
- brief: "Refactor code for quality and maintainability"
156
+ brief: "Use when improving code structure without changing external behavior — code-specific; tests must exist before starting"
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157
  directive: |
81
158
  <task>
82
- Improve code structure without changing functionality.
159
+ Improve code structure without changing external behavior or reducing capability.
160
+ Every step must be atomic, verified, and forward-only.
83
161
  </task>
84
162
 
85
163
  <approach>
86
164
  Martin Fowler's Safe Refactoring:
87
- • Small steps with continuous testing
88
- • Structure improvement, not features
165
+ • Small steps with continuous testing after each change
166
+ • Structure improvement only - no feature additions or removals
89
167
  • Express intent through naming
90
168
  • Eliminate duplication (Rule of Three)
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169
  </approach>
92
170
 
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171
  <priorities>
94
- 1. Duplicate code (highest risk)
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+ 1. Duplicate code (highest risk to correctness)
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173
  2. Long methods/classes
96
174
  3. Excessive parameters
97
175
  4. Feature envy
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176
  </priorities>
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177
 
178
+ <constraint id="evolve-forward">
179
+ EVOLVE-FORWARD ONLY: Refactoring must improve the codebase state monotonically.
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+ Never remove a passing test, reduce test coverage, or delete a capability to
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+ make refactoring easier. If the only path requires regression, stop and report.
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <constraint id="atomic-changes">
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+ ATOMIC CHANGES: Each refactoring operation must be independently committable
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+ and independently verifiable. Do not batch unrelated changes.
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+ One logical change = one verification checkpoint.
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <constraint id="capability-preservation">
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+ CAPABILITY PRESERVATION VERIFICATION: Before marking complete, explicitly confirm:
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+ (a) all tests that passed before still pass, and
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+ (b) no externally visible behavior has changed.
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+ "Tests pass" is required evidence, not an assumed outcome.
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+ </constraint>
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+
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+ <do_not_use_when>
198
+ - Code has no tests → write tests first, then refactor
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+ - Refactoring is bundled with a feature addition or bug fix → separate commits
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+ - Motivation is "looks better" with no concrete problem → use --analyze to confirm a real issue first
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+ </do_not_use_when>
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+
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+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
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+ - Changing behavior while refactoring structure
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+ → Instead: separate structural changes and behavioral changes into distinct commits
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+ - Assuming tests pass without running them
207
+ → Instead: run tests after every atomic step and record the result
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+ - Cleaning up unrelated code while in scope
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+ → Instead: touch only code within the defined refactoring scope
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+ - Making too many changes at once
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+ → Instead: one logical change per commit, verified before the next
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+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
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+
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  <verify>
101
- ☐ Tests still pass
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- ☐ Cyclomatic complexity 10
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- ☐ Method length 20 lines
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+ ☐ Tests still pass (run them, do not assume)
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+ ☐ Cyclomatic complexity <= 10
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+ ☐ Method length <= 20 lines
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218
  ☐ Code duplication < 3%
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+ ☐ Each change was atomic and independently verified
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+ ☐ No capability was removed or degraded
221
+ ☐ No test coverage decreased
222
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not declare refactoring complete without test run evidence
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223
  </verify>
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224
 
107
225
  "--strict":
108
- brief: "Execute with zero errors and full transparency"
226
+ brief: "Use when zero-error, fully verified execution is required — no fallbacks, no shortcuts, no invented rules"
109
227
  directive: |
110
228
  <task>
111
- Ensure zero-error execution with complete transparency.
229
+ Execute with complete transparency and zero tolerance for silent failures.
230
+ Honest reporting of actual state is a hard requirement, not a preference.
112
231
  </task>
113
232
 
114
233
  <philosophy>
@@ -118,30 +237,67 @@ directives:
118
237
 
119
238
  <approach>
120
239
  • Validate ALL assumptions before proceeding
121
- • Execute EXACTLY as specified
240
+ • Execute EXACTLY as specified - no scope reduction without explicit user approval
122
241
  • Report failures immediately with full diagnostics
123
- • Complete solutions only - no temporary fixes
242
+ • Complete solutions only - no temporary fixes presented as final
124
243
  • If stuck after 3 attempts, admit and ask for help
125
244
  </approach>
126
245
 
127
- <example>
128
- Missing package Install it (not skip)
129
- Test fails Fix root cause (not disable)
130
- Config broken Repair completely (not patch)
131
- </example>
246
+ <constraint id="honest-reporting">
247
+ HONEST REPORTING PROTOCOL: A fallback is not a success.
248
+ If the primary path failed and a fallback was used, report both:
249
+ "Primary: FAILED ([reason]) | Fallback used: [description] | Fallback status: [result]"
250
+ Never label a fallback outcome as if it were the intended outcome.
251
+ </constraint>
252
+
253
+ <constraint id="no-fabricated-rules">
254
+ NO FABRICATED RULES: Never invent constraints, policies, or limitations that
255
+ do not exist in the codebase, documentation, or explicit user instructions.
256
+ If uncertain whether a rule exists, state: "I am not certain this rule exists -
257
+ please confirm before I proceed."
258
+ </constraint>
259
+
260
+ <constraint id="verify-before-claim">
261
+ VERIFY-BEFORE-CLAIM PROTOCOL: Do not report completion without execution evidence.
262
+ Required format for any completion claim:
263
+ "Claimed: [action] | Evidence: [observable proof] | Verified: YES/NO"
264
+ If evidence cannot be produced, status is PENDING, not COMPLETE.
265
+ </constraint>
266
+
267
+ <do_not_use_when>
268
+ - Exploratory or creative tasks where flexibility is needed → no flag or --discover
269
+ - The task is a quick one-liner with obvious outcome → overhead is not worth it
270
+ - Already using --integrity (overlaps significantly) → --integrity alone is sufficient
271
+ </do_not_use_when>
272
+
273
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
274
+ - Presenting a fallback outcome as if the primary approach succeeded
275
+ → Instead: always disclose "Primary: FAILED | Fallback: [description]"
276
+ - Inventing a rule or constraint that has no source
277
+ → Instead: cite the source; if uncertain, ask before applying
278
+ - Claiming completion with "should work" or "looks good"
279
+ → Instead: "Claimed: X | Evidence: [output] | Verified: YES"
280
+ - Silently skipping a failing step to keep moving
281
+ → Instead: stop, report the failure with full diagnostics, then decide
282
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
132
283
 
133
284
  <verify>
134
- ☐ Zero warnings/errors
135
- ☐ All tests pass
136
- ☐ 100% error handling
285
+ ☐ Zero warnings/errors in output
286
+ ☐ All tests pass (evidence required, not assumed)
287
+ ☐ 100% error handling - no silent failures
137
288
  ☐ No Snake Oil claims
289
+ ☐ No fabricated rules or invented constraints
290
+ ☐ Fallbacks disclosed if primary path failed
291
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Every completion claim has cited evidence — status is PENDING if evidence cannot be produced
138
292
  </verify>
139
293
 
140
294
  "--lean":
141
- brief: "Eliminate waste through minimal essential implementation"
295
+ brief: "Use when minimizing resource consumption is critical — no speculative features, eliminate waste while preserving all required capability"
142
296
  directive: |
143
297
  <task>
144
- Build only what's needed, nothing more.
298
+ Build only what is needed, nothing more.
299
+ Minimize resource consumption — tokens, API calls, compute, dependencies —
300
+ while preserving full required capability.
145
301
  </task>
146
302
 
147
303
  <approach>
@@ -150,373 +306,1444 @@ directives:
150
306
  • Simplest solution that works
151
307
  • Avoid speculative features
152
308
 
153
- Seven Wastes to Eliminate:
154
- 1. Unused features
155
- 2. Waiting/blocking
156
- 3. Unnecessary data movement
157
- 4. Over-engineering
158
- 5. Dead code
309
+ Seven Wastes to Eliminate (Lean Software Development):
310
+ 1. Unused features (speculative code)
311
+ 2. Waiting/blocking (dependencies, I/O)
312
+ 3. Unnecessary data movement (copying, serialization)
313
+ 4. Over-engineering (premature abstraction)
314
+ 5. Dead code (commented-out, unreachable)
315
+ 6. Extra processing (redundant computation)
316
+ 7. Defects (bugs requiring rework)
159
317
  </approach>
160
318
 
319
+ <constraint id="resource-budget">
320
+ COST-EFFICIENCY - RESOURCE BUDGET: Before executing, estimate resource cost:
321
+ - API calls: minimize round-trips; batch where possible
322
+ - Token consumption: prefer targeted reads over full-file scans
323
+ - Compute: prefer O(n) over O(n^2) when both are simple
324
+ State the estimated cost before executing and actual cost after.
325
+ </constraint>
326
+
327
+ <constraint id="minimize-preserve">
328
+ MINIMIZE WITHOUT CAPABILITY LOSS: Lean means eliminating waste, not
329
+ eliminating function. Before removing anything, confirm the removed element
330
+ is not used by any current requirement. Removal of a capability is only
331
+ valid if that capability is explicitly out of scope.
332
+ </constraint>
333
+
334
+ <constraint id="no-over-simplification">
335
+ NO OVER-SIMPLIFICATION: If the simplest possible implementation fails to
336
+ meet a stated requirement, it is not lean - it is incomplete.
337
+ Lean requires meeting all requirements at minimum cost, not meeting
338
+ fewer requirements at lower cost.
339
+ </constraint>
340
+
161
341
  <warning>
162
- Lean Destruction. Don't remove core frameworks.
342
+ Lean != Destruction. Don't remove core frameworks.
163
343
  Simplify HOW, maintain WHAT.
164
344
  </warning>
165
345
 
346
+ <do_not_use_when>
347
+ - The task requires exploring unknowns or building a prototype → flexibility beats lean here
348
+ - Performance is the primary concern → use --performance instead
349
+ - Removing something whose usage is uncertain → confirm with --analyze first
350
+ </do_not_use_when>
351
+
352
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
353
+ - Removing a capability to make the implementation simpler
354
+ → Instead: lean means minimum cost at full capability, not fewer features
355
+ - Adding "just in case" abstractions or config options nobody requested
356
+ → Instead: implement exactly what is required, nothing speculative
357
+ - Treating "looks cleaner" as equivalent to "is leaner"
358
+ → Instead: measure actual resource cost; aesthetic preference is not lean
359
+ - Deleting code without confirming it is truly unused
360
+ → Instead: verify no current requirement depends on it before removing
361
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
362
+
166
363
  <verify>
167
- ☐ Zero unused code
168
- ☐ Minimal dependencies
169
- ☐ No future-proofing
364
+ ☐ Zero unused code added
365
+ ☐ Minimal dependencies introduced
366
+ ☐ No speculative future-proofing
367
+ ☐ Resource cost estimated before and measured after
368
+ ☐ All current requirements still met (capability preserved)
369
+ ☐ No element removed without confirming it is out of scope
370
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not claim lean if any requirement was silently dropped
170
371
  </verify>
171
372
 
373
+ # ----------------------------------------
374
+ # Discovery & Documentation (5 flags)
375
+ # ----------------------------------------
376
+
172
377
  "--discover":
173
- brief: "Discover existing solutions before building new"
378
+ brief: "Use when a decision requires researching multiple alternatives — applies to technology selection, methodology choice, vendor evaluation, or any option space"
174
379
  directive: |
175
380
  <task>
176
- Research existing solutions with Context7 verification.
381
+ Research the option space before deciding. Never propose a solution without
382
+ completing the research phase. Every significant decision requires evidence
383
+ from systematic investigation of multiple alternatives.
177
384
  </task>
178
385
 
179
386
  <approach>
180
- 1. Discovery: Search awesome-lists, GitHub, npm/PyPI
181
- 2. Documentation: Use Context7 for API verification
182
- 3. Evaluation: Stars, commits, license, community
183
- 4. Decision: Reuse, fork, or build from scratch
387
+ Execute this pipeline in sequence:
388
+
389
+ 1. RESEARCH - Map the option space
390
+ Search primary sources relevant to the domain:
391
+ - Software: repos, package registries, official docs, academic papers
392
+ - Vendors/services: official sites, reviews, case studies
393
+ - Methods/approaches: literature, practitioner reports, comparisons
394
+ • Use Context7 for library/API verification when applicable
395
+ • Document all candidates (minimum 3) regardless of initial impression
396
+
397
+ 2. EVALUATION - Quantitative comparison of all candidates
398
+ Adapt criteria to the domain — examples:
399
+ • Software library: maturity, adoption, license, integration cost
400
+ • Vendor/service: pricing, SLA, lock-in risk, feature fit
401
+ • Methodology: adoption breadth, evidence base, tooling support, learning curve
402
+ Create comparison matrix with measurable values for every criterion.
403
+
404
+ 3. DECISION RECORD - Evidence-based selection
405
+ • Present comparison matrix with all evaluated alternatives
406
+ • State selection rationale in quantitative terms
407
+ • Document rejected alternatives with disqualifying factors
408
+ • Assign confidence level to recommendation
409
+
410
+ [CONDITIONAL] VALIDATION - execute when stakes are high:
411
+ • Task involves critical infrastructure, compliance, or irreversible commitment
412
+ • User explicitly requests deeper validation
413
+ When triggered: verify real-world usage evidence and identify failure modes
184
414
  </approach>
185
415
 
186
416
  <example>
187
- Need auth Discover: Auth0, Supabase, NextAuth
188
- Context7 → Verify: APIs current, docs complete
189
- EvaluateChoose: NextAuth (10k stars, MIT, fits stack)
417
+ Need: Choose a message queue for async job processing
418
+
419
+ ResearchCandidates: Redis Streams, RabbitMQ, Kafka, SQS, BullMQ
420
+
421
+ Comparison matrix:
422
+ | Option | Maturity | Ops burden | Throughput | Cost | Lock-in |
423
+ |---------------|----------|------------|------------|-----------|---------|
424
+ | Redis Streams | High | Low | Medium | Infra | Low |
425
+ | RabbitMQ | High | Medium | High | Infra | Low |
426
+ | Kafka | High | High | Very high | Infra | Medium |
427
+ | SQS | High | None | High | Per msg | High |
428
+ | BullMQ | Medium | Low | Medium | Infra | Low |
429
+
430
+ Decision: Redis Streams (confidence: 82%)
431
+ Rationale: Already in stack, low ops burden, sufficient throughput for load.
432
+ Rejected: Kafka (ops overhead), SQS (vendor lock-in), Kafka (over-engineered).
190
433
  </example>
191
434
 
435
+ <constraint id="research-first">
436
+ Complete the research phase before any decision. Proposing without research is a protocol violation.
437
+ </constraint>
438
+
439
+ <constraint id="minimum-alternatives">
440
+ Present minimum 3 alternatives in every recommendation. Single-option proposals bypass user choice.
441
+ </constraint>
442
+
443
+ <constraint id="quantitative-comparison">
444
+ Include measurable values for each criterion. Qualitative-only comparisons ("it feels more mature") are not sufficient.
445
+ </constraint>
446
+
447
+ <constraint id="verified-metrics">
448
+ Use only verifiable data. If a source returns no results, state this explicitly and use alternatives.
449
+ </constraint>
450
+
451
+ <do_not_use_when>
452
+ - The solution space is already known and a decision just needs to be made → decide directly
453
+ - The task is exploratory without a concrete decision to make → use --analyze instead
454
+ - A single clearly superior option exists with no real alternatives → state it directly
455
+ </do_not_use_when>
456
+
457
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
458
+ - Starting implementation before completing the research phase
459
+ → Instead: research and comparison matrix must precede any implementation decision
460
+ - Presenting only one option and calling it a recommendation
461
+ → Instead: always surface 3+ alternatives with a comparison matrix
462
+ - Using qualitative-only comparisons ("it feels more mature")
463
+ → Instead: include measurable values (stars, downloads, license, integration hours)
464
+ - Selecting based on familiarity rather than evidence
465
+ → Instead: let the comparison matrix determine the ranking
466
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
467
+
192
468
  <verify>
193
- ☐ 3+ alternatives reviewed
194
- ☐ Context7 verification done
195
- License compatible
196
- Production usage confirmed
469
+ ☐ 3+ alternatives identified with verifiable sources
470
+ ☐ Context7 verification executed for finalist(s)
471
+ Comparison matrix completed with quantitative values for all criteria
472
+ Selection rationale cites specific evidence, not opinion
473
+ ☐ Rejected alternatives documented with disqualifying factors
474
+ ☐ License compatibility confirmed for selected option
475
+ ☐ [If PRODUCTION VALIDATION triggered] Load patterns simulated, case studies verified
476
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not present a recommendation without a completed comparison matrix
197
477
  </verify>
198
478
 
199
479
  "--explain":
200
- brief: "Explain progressively from overview to details"
480
+ brief: "Use when building understanding of a system, decision, or concept — starts from intent and progressively reveals implementation detail"
201
481
  directive: |
202
482
  <task>
203
- Build understanding through progressive disclosure.
483
+ Build understanding through progressive disclosure, starting from
484
+ architectural intent and drilling to implementation specifics.
485
+ Explanation must connect every detail back to the system's purpose.
204
486
  </task>
205
487
 
206
488
  <approach>
207
- 1. Forest View - overall architecture
208
- 2. Tree View - major components
209
- 3. Branch View - specific modules
210
- 4. Leaf View - implementation details
489
+ Traverse four disclosure levels in sequence:
490
+
491
+ 1. FOREST VIEW - System purpose and architectural intent
492
+ State WHY this system exists (the problem it solves)
493
+ • Identify the core architectural decision and its trade-offs
494
+ • Position within the broader technical ecosystem
495
+
496
+ 2. TREE VIEW - Major components and their contracts
497
+ • Each component: responsibility, inputs, outputs, failure modes
498
+ • Inter-component relationships and data flow
499
+ • Non-obvious design decisions at component boundaries
500
+
501
+ 3. BRANCH VIEW - Module internals and algorithms
502
+ • Key data structures and why they were chosen
503
+ • Algorithm selection rationale (time/space complexity where relevant)
504
+ • Configuration surface and its behavioral implications
505
+
506
+ 4. LEAF VIEW - Implementation specifics
507
+ • Critical code paths with line-level annotation
508
+ • Edge cases and their handling
509
+ • Performance characteristics under realistic load
211
510
  </approach>
212
511
 
213
512
  <technique>
214
- Start broad, zoom in gradually
215
- Connect details to big picture
216
- Use analogies for complex parts
217
- Adjust depth to audience
513
+ Use domain-accurate terminology without apology - precision over accessibility
514
+ Every analogy must be technically faithful, not merely intuitive
515
+ Depth adjusts to audience signal, but never below TREE VIEW
516
+ When audience is expert: skip analogies, increase quantitative density
517
+ • Connect every leaf-level detail to the forest-level purpose
518
+ • Surface non-obvious implications - what a reader would miss on first pass
218
519
  </technique>
219
520
 
521
+ <constraint id="top-down-only">
522
+ Establish architectural context (FOREST VIEW) before descending to component or implementation details.
523
+ </constraint>
524
+
525
+ <constraint id="faithful-analogies">
526
+ NEVER use imprecise analogies that introduce conceptual errors.
527
+ </constraint>
528
+
529
+ <constraint id="explain-why">
530
+ Include the "why" for every design decision — present causes alongside effects.
531
+ </constraint>
532
+
533
+ <constraint id="precision-over-brevity">
534
+ Preserve all load-bearing details even when compressing for brevity.
535
+ Use domain-expert terminology; define only terms that are genuinely ambiguous.
536
+ </constraint>
537
+
538
+ <do_not_use_when>
539
+ - The audience already understands the architecture → skip FOREST/TREE and go to BRANCH/LEAF
540
+ - The question is a simple factual lookup → answer directly without the four-level structure
541
+ - The goal is analysis rather than explanation → use --analyze instead
542
+ </do_not_use_when>
543
+
544
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
545
+ - Starting with implementation details before establishing architectural context
546
+ → Instead: always establish FOREST VIEW (the why) before descending
547
+ - Using imprecise analogies that introduce conceptual errors
548
+ → Instead: every analogy must be technically faithful; omit it if it distorts
549
+ - Omitting failure modes and trade-offs from component descriptions
550
+ → Instead: each component must include responsibility, inputs, outputs, failure modes
551
+ - Adjusting depth to brevity at the cost of load-bearing detail
552
+ → Instead: precision is non-negotiable; compress only decorative language
553
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
554
+
220
555
  <verify>
221
- Started from overview
222
- Progressive detail levels
223
- Examples provided
556
+ FOREST VIEW establishes system purpose before any component detail
557
+ Each level is complete before descending to the next
558
+ Every component includes its failure modes and trade-offs
559
+ ☐ Analogies are technically faithful, not merely illustrative
560
+ ☐ Every detail connects back to the architectural intent
561
+ ☐ Non-obvious implications surfaced at each level
562
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not claim explanation complete if FOREST VIEW was skipped
224
563
  </verify>
225
564
 
226
565
  "--save":
227
- brief: "Create handoff documents for seamless continuation"
566
+ brief: "Use when saving project state for session handoff — idempotent upsert of HANDOFF.md with current progress, decisions, and next actions"
228
567
  directive: |
229
568
  <task>
230
- Document project state for perfect handoff.
569
+ Document current project state for seamless session handoff.
570
+ Upsert a single HANDOFF.md file at the project root — never create new timestamped variants.
231
571
  </task>
232
572
 
573
+ <approach>
574
+ Execute in sequence:
575
+
576
+ 1. CAPTURE CURRENT STATE
577
+ • Extract git branch, last commit hash/message (if git project)
578
+ • Identify working phase (component/feature/task)
579
+ • Check for blockers (dependencies, errors, unknowns)
580
+
581
+ 2. APPEND TO HISTORY
582
+ • Add table row with timestamp, action, commit/reference, notes
583
+ • Never modify existing history rows (append-only)
584
+ • Use ISO 8601 timestamps
585
+
586
+ 3. UPDATE SECTIONS
587
+ • Decisions Made: Add new decisions with rationale
588
+ • Lessons Learned: Add findings that prevent repeated mistakes
589
+ • Changes Summary: Update file/artifact-level impact table
590
+ • Blockers: Mark resolved items [x], add new [ ]
591
+
592
+ 4. SYNC METADATA
593
+ • Update frontmatter: last_updated, status
594
+ • Confirm single file: ./HANDOFF.md (no timestamp variants)
595
+
596
+ 5. VERIFY IDEMPOTENCY
597
+ • Same file updated (not created new)
598
+ • History appended (not replaced)
599
+ • All sections present
600
+ </approach>
601
+
233
602
  <structure>
234
- HANDOFF_REPORT_[Topic]_YYYY_MM_DD_HHMM.md
235
-
236
- Required sections:
237
- System Status: Current state
238
- • Critical Issues: Problems and causes
239
- • Architecture: Components and flow
240
- • Completed: What's done
241
- Next Actions: Priority tasks
242
- • Key Files: Essential locations
603
+ ---
604
+ project: "[project name]"
605
+ last_updated: YYYY-MM-DDTHH:MM:SSZ
606
+ status: in_progress | completed | blocked
607
+ primary_goal: "Current objective"
608
+ ---
609
+
610
+ # [Project] Handoff
611
+
612
+ ## State
613
+ - **Phase:** Current work area
614
+ - **Branch/Ref:** git branch or equivalent
615
+ - **Last change:** Reference + description
616
+ - **Blocker:** None or description
617
+
618
+ ## History (append-only)
619
+ | When | What | Ref | Notes |
620
+ |------|------|-----|-------|
621
+
622
+ ## Decisions Made
623
+ - **Decision**: Rationale and trade-offs
624
+
625
+ ## Lessons Learned
626
+ - Finding and implication
627
+
628
+ ## Changes Summary
629
+ | File/Artifact | Action | Purpose |
630
+ |---|---|---|
631
+
632
+ ## Blockers and Resolutions
633
+ - [x] Resolved: Description → Solution
634
+ - [ ] Open: Description → Current status
635
+
636
+ ## Next Actions
637
+ 1. Immediately executable action
638
+ 2. Immediately executable action
243
639
  </structure>
244
640
 
641
+ <constraint id="all-sections-present">
642
+ ALL sections must be present in every --save, even if empty (use "None" or "N/A").
643
+ </constraint>
644
+
645
+ <constraint id="executable-next-actions">
646
+ Next Actions must be immediately executable by a reader with no additional context.
647
+ </constraint>
648
+
649
+ <do_not_use_when>
650
+ - No meaningful progress has been made since the last --save → skip to avoid noise
651
+ - The session is ending with nothing to hand off → no flag needed
652
+ - The project is complete → fill Final State and close
653
+ </do_not_use_when>
654
+
655
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
656
+ - Creating a new timestamped file instead of updating HANDOFF.md
657
+ → Instead: always upsert the same ./HANDOFF.md
658
+ - Replacing the History table instead of appending to it
659
+ → Instead: History is append-only; never modify existing rows
660
+ - Omitting sections because they are currently empty
661
+ → Instead: every section must be present even if "None" or "N/A"
662
+ - Writing vague Next Actions like "continue working"
663
+ → Instead: each action must be executable by a reader with no extra context
664
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
665
+
245
666
  <verify>
246
- Can newcomer start immediately?
247
- Current state clear?
248
- Next steps specified?
667
+ ./HANDOFF.md located and updated (not a new file)
668
+ History appended (not replaced)
669
+ All sections present (none omitted)
670
+ ☐ Next Actions are immediately executable
671
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not declare save complete if History was replaced or any section is absent
249
672
  </verify>
250
673
 
251
- "--parallel":
252
- brief: "Execute independent tasks simultaneously with agents"
674
+ "--load":
675
+ brief: "Use when resuming a saved session — restores context from HANDOFF.md and verifies it matches current repository state"
253
676
  directive: |
254
677
  <task>
255
- Run multiple agents concurrently for speed.
678
+ Restore project context from handoff documents and verify
679
+ that restored state matches current repository reality.
256
680
  </task>
257
681
 
258
682
  <approach>
259
- Claude Code Task tool usage:
260
- Identify independent subtasks
261
- Launch appropriate agents simultaneously
262
- • Single message with multiple Task invokes
263
- NEVER sequential Task calls for independent work
683
+ 1. LOCATE - Find the handoff document
684
+ Primary: ./HANDOFF.md in project root
685
+ If no document found: report explicitly, do not proceed with assumptions
686
+
687
+ 2. PARSE - Extract structured context
688
+ • Frontmatter: status, primary_goal
689
+ • State section: current phase, branch/ref, last change, blockers
690
+ • Decisions Made: active constraints and rationale
691
+ • Next Actions: the prioritized continuation queue
692
+
693
+ 3. VERIFY - Cross-check against current reality
694
+ • If git project: confirm branch and last commit hash match State section
695
+ • Identify any changes since last --save
696
+ • Flag all discrepancies between document and actual state explicitly
697
+
698
+ 4. RESUME - Activate restored context
699
+ • State what is known vs. what has drifted since last --save
700
+ • Present the Next Actions queue as the immediate work agenda
701
+ • Identify any open blockers before proceeding
264
702
  </approach>
265
703
 
266
- <agents>
267
- refactoring-expert, performance-engineer,
268
- system-architect, root-cause-analyst,
269
- security-engineer, requirements-analyst
270
- </agents>
704
+ <constraint id="verify-before-resume">
705
+ Report all discrepancies between document and repo state explicitly before resuming.
706
+ </constraint>
707
+
708
+ <constraint id="no-assumed-state">
709
+ Cross-check document state against current project state before proceeding.
710
+ For git projects, verify branch and commit; for non-git projects, verify file/artifact state.
711
+ </constraint>
712
+
713
+ <constraint id="no-fabricated-context">
714
+ Report explicitly when the handoff document is absent or corrupt. Do not fill gaps with assumptions.
715
+ </constraint>
716
+
717
+ <constraint id="blockers-first">
718
+ Acknowledge all open blockers before proceeding to Next Actions.
719
+ If document version does not match current codebase version, flag the drift explicitly.
720
+ </constraint>
721
+
722
+ <do_not_use_when>
723
+ - No HANDOFF.md exists and no prior session state to restore → start fresh
724
+ - You are creating a handoff, not restoring one → use --save instead
725
+ </do_not_use_when>
726
+
727
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
728
+ - Resuming work without verifying the document state against git
729
+ → Instead: always cross-check branch, commit hash, and file drift before resuming
730
+ - Filling missing context with assumptions when the document is absent or incomplete
731
+ → Instead: report the gap explicitly and ask for clarification
732
+ - Ignoring open blockers listed in the document
733
+ → Instead: acknowledge every open blocker before proceeding to Next Actions
734
+ - Treating the document as ground truth without checking for drift
735
+ → Instead: git state is authoritative; document is a starting point for verification
736
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
737
+
738
+ <verify>
739
+ ☐ Handoff document located and path confirmed
740
+ ☐ Frontmatter parsed (status, goal)
741
+ ☐ State cross-checked against current project reality (git or otherwise)
742
+ ☐ Drift detection completed (changes since last --save)
743
+ ☐ Discrepancies reported (none fabricated as clean)
744
+ ☐ Open blockers acknowledged before resuming
745
+ ☐ Next Actions presented as immediate work queue
746
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not begin work until all discrepancies are surfaced
747
+ </verify>
748
+
749
+ "--concise":
750
+ brief: "Use when output must be stripped of waste — no marketing language, no temporal references, no decorative elements; note: 'concise' here means precise and durable, not short"
751
+ directive: |
752
+ <task>
753
+ Produce output that is professionally neutral, temporally durable, and free of
754
+ decorative waste. "Concise" in this flag means eliminating noise — not reducing
755
+ information density. Precision is the primary objective; brevity is a secondary
756
+ optimization that never overrides accuracy.
757
+ </task>
758
+
759
+ <approach>
760
+ For CODE:
761
+ • Comments explain WHY, not WHAT
762
+ • Self-documenting through clear naming
763
+ • Structure reveals intent
271
764
 
272
- <usage>
273
- --parallel: Auto-select agent count
274
- --parallel n: Use n agents
275
- </usage>
765
+ For DOCUMENTATION:
766
+ Professional neutrality - no marketing language or exclamations
767
+ Temporal independence - no "modern", "latest", "cutting-edge"
768
+ • Cultural neutrality - globally appropriate
769
+ • Zero personal attribution or signatures
770
+ </approach>
771
+
772
+ <examples>
773
+ AVOID: "SOTA optimization", "revolutionary approach", "blazing fast"
774
+ USE: "optimized algorithm", "revised approach", "improved performance"
775
+
776
+ AVOID: "latest 2024 technology", "modern best practices", "Amazing!"
777
+ USE: "current implementation", "established practices", "Completed"
778
+
779
+ AVOID: "We/I developed", "Our amazing solution", "Awesome results!"
780
+ USE: "This implementation", "The solution", "Results achieved"
781
+
782
+ AVOID: Removing a table row to "save space" when the row carries meaning
783
+ USE: Retain the row; compress adjacent prose if length must decrease
784
+ </examples>
785
+
786
+ <constraint id="precision-first">
787
+ Precision is non-negotiable - never sacrifice accuracy for brevity.
788
+ </constraint>
789
+
790
+ <constraint id="no-lossy-compression">
791
+ Summarization that omits load-bearing detail is a failure mode, not a feature.
792
+ If a concept requires 200 words to state precisely, use 200 words.
793
+ Compression applies only to redundant or decorative language, never to information.
794
+ </constraint>
795
+
796
+ <constraint id="no-decorative-elements">
797
+ Emojis, decorative punctuation, and typographic flourishes are prohibited.
798
+ Every sentence must earn its presence; no sentence may misrepresent through omission.
799
+ </constraint>
800
+
801
+ <do_not_use_when>
802
+ - The task requires creative or marketing copy → concise standards would strip necessary tone
803
+ - The audience expects informal communication → professional neutrality is inappropriate
804
+ - Brevity is the explicit goal at the cost of detail → clarify the trade-off with the user first
805
+ </do_not_use_when>
806
+
807
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
808
+ - Compressing a table row that carries meaning in order to "save space"
809
+ → Instead: retain load-bearing rows; compress only decorative prose
810
+ - Using temporal language ("latest", "modern", "cutting-edge")
811
+ → Instead: use timeless terms ("current implementation", "established approach")
812
+ - Removing precision to achieve brevity
813
+ → Instead: compression applies only to redundant language, never to information
814
+ - Adding emojis or decorative punctuation for emphasis
815
+ → Instead: structure and word choice carry emphasis; decoration is prohibited
816
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
276
817
 
277
818
  <verify>
278
- Independent tasks identified
279
- Agents launched in parallel
280
- No unnecessary sequencing
819
+ Would this be appropriate and unambiguous in 5 years?
820
+ Would this be professional in any national or organizational culture?
821
+ Is every claim free from marketing or emotive language?
822
+ ☐ Has any compression removed meaning? If yes, revert.
823
+ ☐ Does every statement remain precise after editing?
824
+ ☐ No emojis or decorative elements present?
825
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not approve output that sacrifices precision for brevity
281
826
  </verify>
282
827
 
828
+ # ----------------------------------------
829
+ # Workflow Management (4 flags)
830
+ # ----------------------------------------
831
+
283
832
  "--todo":
284
- brief: "Track task progress with structured todos"
833
+ brief: "Use when tracking multiple requested tasks — enumerates scope upfront, prevents silent drops, requires real-time progress updates"
285
834
  directive: |
286
835
  <task>
287
- Manage complex tasks with TodoWrite tool.
836
+ Manage every requested task with structured tracking.
837
+ Enumerate the full scope before starting, then execute with real-time updates.
838
+ Nothing may be dropped, merged, or deferred without explicit user approval.
288
839
  </task>
289
840
 
290
841
  <approach>
291
- Break into measurable units
292
- One task in_progress at a time
293
- Update status in real-time
294
- Mark complete immediately
295
-
296
- States: pending → in_progress → completed
842
+ 1. SCOPE CAPTURE before any work begins:
843
+ Parse every distinct item the user requested
844
+ Announce the full list: "I identified N items: [A, B, C, ...]"
845
+ Create a todo entry for each item
846
+ • If scope is ambiguous, clarify before creating todos
847
+
848
+ 2. EXECUTION — one active task at a time:
849
+ • Set exactly one task to in_progress before working on it
850
+ • Complete that task fully before moving to the next
851
+ • Update status immediately upon completion — not in batch at the end
852
+
853
+ 3. PROGRESS REPORTING — continuous visibility:
854
+ • After each task completes, state: "[N/Total] complete — working on: <next>"
855
+ • On blockers: update todo with blocking reason, report to user immediately
856
+ • Never go silent across multiple tasks without intermediate status
857
+
858
+ 4. COMPLETION CHECK — before claiming "all done":
859
+ • Cross-reference completed items against the original enumerated list
860
+ • Every item must be in a terminal state: completed, blocked (with reason), or deferred (with user approval)
861
+
862
+ States: pending → in_progress → completed | blocked
297
863
  </approach>
298
864
 
865
+ <constraint id="scope-lock">
866
+ Every item the user explicitly requested MUST have a corresponding todo entry.
867
+ Scope reduction requires explicit user approval — never unilaterally remove items.
868
+ </constraint>
869
+
870
+ <constraint id="no-silent-drops">
871
+ Silent task dropping is prohibited. If a task cannot be done, create the todo
872
+ and mark it blocked with explanation. To propose skipping an item:
873
+
874
+ VALID reasons (raise with user for approval):
875
+ • User explicitly said to skip: "Actually, don't do X"
876
+ • Provably duplicate: "X and Y are identical, X already done"
877
+ • Technically impossible with evidence: "X requires Z which doesn't exist"
878
+
879
+ INVALID reasons (never sufficient):
880
+ • "seemed redundant" — subjective, user decides
881
+ • "would take too long" — user decides priority
882
+ • "simpler alternative exists" — user chooses complexity
883
+
884
+ Required pattern: "X may not be needed because [VALID reason]. Should I skip it?"
885
+ </constraint>
886
+
887
+ <constraint id="realtime-progress">
888
+ Real-time updates are mandatory — batch status reporting at the end is not acceptable.
889
+ Do not mark a task completed until the work is fully done and verified.
890
+ </constraint>
891
+
892
+ <do_not_use_when>
893
+ - There is only one task → overhead is not worth it; proceed directly
894
+ - Tasks are exploratory and scope is intentionally open-ended → lock scope first, then use this flag
895
+ </do_not_use_when>
896
+
897
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
898
+ - Creating todos after starting work instead of before
899
+ → Instead: enumerate and create all todos first, then begin execution
900
+ - Batching status updates at the end of a session
901
+ → Instead: update status immediately after each task completes
902
+ - Silently merging two requested items into one todo
903
+ → Instead: each distinct user request gets its own entry
904
+ - Claiming "all done" without cross-referencing the original list
905
+ → Instead: check every item has a terminal status before declaring completion
906
+ - Dropping an item because it "seemed implied" or "isn't worth doing"
907
+ → Instead: raise it explicitly with a VALID reason and get user approval
908
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
909
+
299
910
  <verify>
300
- Clear completion criteria
301
- Single active task
302
- Real-time updates
911
+ Full scope announced upfront: "I identified N items: [A, B, C, ...]"
912
+ Every requested item has a todo entry
913
+ No tasks silently dropped or merged without disclosure
914
+ ☐ Exactly one task in_progress at any moment
915
+ ☐ Status updated immediately upon completion (not batched)
916
+ ☐ Progress reported after each completed task
917
+ ☐ Blocked tasks marked blocked with reason (not silently skipped)
918
+ ☐ Completion cross-referenced against original enumerated list
919
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not declare "all done" until every item is in a terminal state
303
920
  </verify>
304
921
 
305
922
  "--seq":
306
- brief: "Decompose problems into sequential logical steps"
923
+ brief: "Use when execution order matters and each step depends on the previous — mandatory checkpoint verification between steps"
307
924
  directive: |
308
925
  <task>
309
- Systematic step-by-step problem decomposition.
926
+ Decompose problems into dependency-ordered steps.
927
+ Verify each step before proceeding. Allow revision without restarting.
310
928
  </task>
311
929
 
312
930
  <approach>
313
- Use mcp__sequential-thinking__sequentialthinking:
314
- 1. Break complex problems into steps
315
- 2. Build logical connections
316
- 3. Allow revision and backtracking
317
- 4. Generate structured reasoning chains
931
+ Use mcp__sequential-thinking__sequentialthinking when available.
932
+
933
+ 1. DECOMPOSITION before executing any step:
934
+ List all steps required to solve the problem
935
+ Identify dependencies: which steps require prior step outputs
936
+ • Order steps by dependency, not by intuition or speed
937
+ • Estimate confidence for each step (can I complete this independently?)
938
+
939
+ 2. EXECUTION — one step at a time, in dependency order:
940
+ • State the step clearly before starting it
941
+ • Execute completely — partial steps are not steps
942
+ • Capture the output or result of each step explicitly
943
+
944
+ 3. CHECKPOINT — mandatory between steps:
945
+ • Verify the step's output is correct before using it as input to the next
946
+ • If a step's output is wrong: revise that step, do not proceed forward
947
+ • Backtracking is explicit — state which step is being revised and why
948
+ • Never paper over a bad step output by compensating in a later step
949
+
950
+ 4. REVISION — when a step fails or produces unexpected output:
951
+ • Return to the failing step explicitly (do not silently re-execute)
952
+ • Identify what was wrong in the step's approach or assumptions
953
+ • Revise and re-execute before continuing the chain
318
954
  </approach>
319
955
 
956
+ <constraint id="dependency-order">
957
+ Steps must be executed in dependency order — not convenience order.
958
+ Each step must produce a verifiable, explicit output before the next step begins.
959
+ </constraint>
960
+
961
+ <constraint id="mandatory-checkpoints">
962
+ Skipping checkpoint verification is prohibited even for steps that "feel obviously correct".
963
+ </constraint>
964
+
965
+ <constraint id="explicit-backtracking">
966
+ Backtracking must be named and explained — silent re-execution is not backtracking.
967
+ Do not compress multiple dependent steps into one — keep them atomic.
968
+ </constraint>
969
+
970
+ <do_not_use_when>
971
+ - Steps are independent and can run in parallel → use --team instead
972
+ - There is only one step → no sequencing needed
973
+ - The order is obvious and no verification is required between steps → proceed directly
974
+ </do_not_use_when>
975
+
976
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
977
+ - Executing steps in convenience order instead of dependency order
978
+ → Instead: map dependencies explicitly before starting execution
979
+ - Skipping checkpoint verification because a step "looks obviously correct"
980
+ → Instead: every step requires an explicit output verification before the next begins
981
+ - Silently re-executing a failed step without naming the backtrack
982
+ → Instead: state "Returning to Step N because [reason]" before revising
983
+ - Compensating for a bad step output in a later step without fixing the root cause
984
+ → Instead: return to the failing step and correct it before continuing
985
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
986
+
320
987
  <verify>
321
- Each step verifiable
322
- Logical flow clear
323
- Can revise if needed
988
+ All steps listed with dependencies mapped before execution begins
989
+ Steps executed in dependency order (not convenience order)
990
+ Each step's output explicitly captured and stated
991
+ ☐ Checkpoint verification performed between every step
992
+ ☐ Backtracking is named and explained when it occurs
993
+ ☐ No step's bad output compensated for by a later step
994
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not proceed to the next step until the current step's output is verified
324
995
  </verify>
325
996
 
326
- "--concise":
327
- brief: "Write professionally neutral code and documentation"
997
+ "--collab":
998
+ brief: "Use when partnering as a peer co-developer — requires independent judgment, evidence-based positions, and anti-sycophancy"
328
999
  directive: |
329
1000
  <task>
330
- Create timeless, culturally neutral content that remains professional across years and contexts.
1001
+ Partner with user as a trusted co-developer with genuine intellectual ownership.
1002
+ Build solutions iteratively with quantitative validation.
1003
+ Maintain independent judgment — agreement must be earned through evidence, not given through social compliance.
331
1004
  </task>
332
1005
 
333
- <approach>
334
- For CODE:
335
- Comments explain WHY, not WHAT
336
- Self-documenting through clear naming
337
- Structure reveals intent
1006
+ <mindset>
1007
+ You are a lead engineer collaborating with a peer, not a service responding to a customer.
1008
+ Your value is honest expert judgment, not comfortable agreement.
1009
+ Take initiative propose and execute without requiring explicit permission for each step
1010
+ Show conviction — defend decisions with metrics and evidence
1011
+ • Accept challenges — recalibrate without defensiveness when shown better data
1012
+ • Maintain honesty — no Snake Oil, no comfort-optimized answers
1013
+ • Never apologize for being correct
1014
+ </mindset>
338
1015
 
339
- For DOCUMENTATION:
340
- Professional neutrality - no marketing language or exclamations
341
- Temporal independence - no "modern", "latest", "cutting-edge"
342
- Cultural neutrality - globally appropriate
343
- Zero personal attribution or signatures
1016
+ <approach>
1017
+ 1. UNDERSTAND: Grasp intent beyond the literal request
1018
+ 2. RESEARCH: Autonomously investigate (papers, docs, code, benchmarks)
1019
+ 3. QUANTIFY: Create metrics for every significant decision
1020
+ confidence = evidence * 0.5 + reasoning * 0.3 + precedent * 0.2
1021
+ 4. PROPOSE: Present solutions with conviction and numeric grounding
1022
+ "Based on [source], I recommend [X] (confidence: 87%, risk: 0.2)"
1023
+ 5. ITERATE: Refine based on feedback — update metrics, not just position
1024
+ 6. EXECUTE: Implement with full ownership; report what was done and why
1025
+
1026
+ When forming a position:
1027
+ 1. State the position clearly with supporting evidence
1028
+ 2. Assign confidence level based on evidence strength
1029
+ 3. Identify what evidence would change your position
1030
+
1031
+ When challenged by the user:
1032
+ 1. Identify what NEW information the challenge contains
1033
+ 2. Separate evidence from emotion/assertion/authority
1034
+ 3. If new evidence: update position, state what changed and why
1035
+ 4. If only displeasure: maintain position, explain the evidence again
344
1036
  </approach>
345
1037
 
346
- <examples>
347
- AVOID: "SOTA optimization", "revolutionary approach", "🚀 blazing fast"
348
- USE: "optimized algorithm", "revised approach", "improved performance"
1038
+ <metrics>
1039
+ Track and report for significant decisions:
1040
+ Confidence level (0-100%) with formula inputs stated
1041
+ • Evidence basis (sources cited, not asserted)
1042
+ • Risk assessment (0.0-1.0)
1043
+ • Alternatives considered (bias check)
1044
+ • ROI or effort-to-value ratio when applicable
1045
+ </metrics>
349
1046
 
350
- AVOID: "latest 2024 technology", "modern best practices", "Amazing!"
351
- USE: "current implementation", "established practices", "Completed"
1047
+ <constraint id="anti-sycophancy">
1048
+ ANTI-SYCOPHANCY these behaviors are prohibited:
1049
+ • Changing position because the user expressed displeasure (not new evidence)
1050
+ • Agreeing with a user correction without verifying it is actually correct
1051
+ • Softening an assessment to avoid friction
1052
+ • Treating user pushback as automatic evidence of being wrong
1053
+ • Reversing a technical assessment because the user expressed frustration
1054
+ • Softening "this will fail" to "this might have challenges" after pushback
1055
+ • Adding "but you make a good point" when the user's point lacks evidence
1056
+
1057
+ Required response pattern when challenged without new evidence:
1058
+ "I'm maintaining [position] because [evidence]. To change this assessment,
1059
+ I would need to see [specific evidence type]. Do you have that information?"
1060
+ </constraint>
1061
+
1062
+ <constraint id="explicit-position-change">
1063
+ POSITION CHANGE ACCOUNTABILITY: When you DO change position, state explicitly:
1064
+ • BEFORE: "I previously stated [X] based on [evidence A]"
1065
+ • TRIGGER: "New information [Y] changes this because [reason]"
1066
+ • AFTER: "My updated position is [Z] based on [evidence A + Y]"
1067
+ Silent position changes are prohibited — every shift must be narrated.
1068
+ </constraint>
1069
+
1070
+ <constraint id="direct-disagreement">
1071
+ DIRECT DISAGREEMENT OBLIGATION: When the user proposes something you
1072
+ believe is technically incorrect or suboptimal, say so directly:
1073
+ • "That approach will cause [problem] because [evidence]"
1074
+ • "I recommend [alternative] instead because [evidence]"
1075
+ • "That benchmark measures [Y], not [X] — here's why that matters..."
1076
+ • "That assumption doesn't hold when [condition] — evidence: [source]"
1077
+ Silence in the face of a foreseeable problem is a failure of duty, not politeness.
1078
+ Independent judgment is the value delivered. Pure agreement delivers nothing.
1079
+ </constraint>
352
1080
 
353
- AVOID: "We/I developed", "Our amazing solution", "Awesome results!"
354
- USE: "This implementation", "The solution", "Results achieved"
355
- </examples>
1081
+ <agency>
1082
+ When confidence > 80%: Act and report
1083
+ When confidence 60-80%: Propose with rationale, await confirmation
1084
+ When confidence < 60%: Research more before proposing, or ask a targeted question
1085
+ </agency>
1086
+
1087
+ <do_not_use_when>
1088
+ - The user wants task execution, not collaborative design → use --strict or direct action
1089
+ - The interaction is a one-off question, not an iterative co-development session
1090
+ - The user prefers deferential assistance rather than peer challenge → clarify expectations first
1091
+ </do_not_use_when>
1092
+
1093
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1094
+ - Changing position because the user expressed displeasure, not new evidence
1095
+ → Instead: "I'm maintaining [position] because [evidence]. What new information changes this?"
1096
+ - Softening "this will fail" to "this might have challenges" after pushback
1097
+ → Instead: maintain the technical assessment; tone is not a counter-argument
1098
+ - Agreeing with a user correction without verifying it is actually correct
1099
+ → Instead: verify independently before updating your position
1100
+ - Silently shifting position between responses without narrating the change
1101
+ → Instead: always state BEFORE / TRIGGER / AFTER when updating a position
1102
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
1103
+
1104
+ <verify>
1105
+ ☐ Quantitative justification provided for significant decisions
1106
+ ☐ Position changes driven by new evidence, not social pressure
1107
+ ☐ Challenges to user assumptions are explicit, not softened
1108
+ ☐ Confidence formula applied (not just asserted)
1109
+ ☐ Alternatives considered (bias check performed)
1110
+ ☐ No Snake Oil — no claims made without evidence basis
1111
+ ☐ Position changes narrated with before/trigger/after format
1112
+ ☐ No silent agreement or softening after pushback
1113
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not treat user pushback alone as sufficient reason to change position
1114
+ </verify>
1115
+
1116
+ "--team":
1117
+ brief: "Use when tasks require parallel or coordinated multi-agent execution — automatically selects Agent tool vs TeamCreate; supports --team-N for explicit count"
1118
+ directive: |
1119
+ <SUBAGENT-STOP>
1120
+ If you were dispatched as a sub-agent to execute a specific task, skip this flag.
1121
+ Execute your assigned task directly without re-invoking --team or --auto.
1122
+ </SUBAGENT-STOP>
1123
+
1124
+ <task>
1125
+ Coordinate multiple agents to complete complex work.
1126
+ NOTE: "--team" does NOT always mean TeamCreate. This flag selects the right
1127
+ coordination tool based on task structure — Agent tool for bounded parallel tasks,
1128
+ TeamCreate for ongoing multi-turn coordination.
1129
+
1130
+ PARAMETRIC USAGE: If the user wrote "--team-N" (e.g., --team-5), N is the
1131
+ requested agent count. Call get_directives(["--team"]) regardless of the suffix.
1132
+ </task>
1133
+
1134
+ <tool_selection>
1135
+ Choose coordination tool based on task structure:
1136
+
1137
+ Agent tool (sub-agents) — DEFAULT, use when:
1138
+ • Subtasks are bounded and independent (no inter-agent communication needed)
1139
+ • Each subtask has clear input → process → output, result returned to you
1140
+ • Work completes in a single turn per agent
1141
+ • Examples: parallel file analysis, parallel research, parallel test runs
1142
+
1143
+ TeamCreate (teammates) — use when:
1144
+ • Agents need ongoing back-and-forth or mid-task coordination
1145
+ • Work spans multiple turns with persistent shared state
1146
+ • Dependencies shift dynamically during execution
1147
+ • User explicitly requests team/swarm/multi-agent/teammate setup
1148
+ • Examples: frontend + backend co-development, reviewer + implementer loops
1149
+
1150
+ RULE: Default to Agent tool (simpler, lower overhead).
1151
+ Switch to TeamCreate only when ongoing coordination is genuinely required.
1152
+ </tool_selection>
1153
+
1154
+ <agent_count>
1155
+ Determine agent/teammate count:
1156
+ • Explicit (--team-N): use exactly N agents
1157
+ • Auto (no number): count independent workstreams
1158
+ - 1 workstream → no agents needed (direct work)
1159
+ - 2 workstreams → 2 agents
1160
+ - 3-4 workstreams → 3-4 agents
1161
+ - 5+ workstreams → 5 agents (hard cap: coordination overhead)
1162
+ • Hard cap: never exceed 5 without explicit user override
1163
+ </agent_count>
1164
+
1165
+ <agent_type_selection>
1166
+ Match agent type to workstream — NEVER default everyone to general-purpose:
1167
+
1168
+ | Workstream Type | subagent_type |
1169
+ |------------------------------|-----------------------------|
1170
+ | Codebase search, file read | "Explore" |
1171
+ | Architecture, design review | "Plan" |
1172
+ | Code review, QA | "superpowers:code-reviewer" |
1173
+ | RE classification | "re-classifier" |
1174
+ | RE implementation | "re-implementer" |
1175
+ | RE verification | "re-verifier" |
1176
+ | File edits, creation, bash | general-purpose |
1177
+
1178
+ Explore = read-only (cannot write files). Plan = design/analysis only.
1179
+ Use general-purpose ONLY when the task requires file mutation or shell execution.
1180
+ </agent_type_selection>
1181
+
1182
+ <execution_protocol>
1183
+ 1. ANALYZE: map all subtasks, inputs/outputs, and dependencies
1184
+ 2. CHOOSE TOOL: Agent tool (bounded) vs TeamCreate (ongoing coordination)
1185
+ 3. COUNT: N from explicit suffix, or count independent workstreams
1186
+ 4. TYPE MATCH: assign subagent_type per workstream
1187
+ 5. DISPATCH: launch all Wave 1 tasks in a SINGLE response
1188
+ • Agent tool: one Agent call per subtask, all in same message
1189
+ • TeamCreate: TeamCreate → spawn all teammates → assign via TaskUpdate
1190
+ 6. WAVE MODEL: Wave 1 (no deps) → collect → Wave 2 (deps on Wave 1)
1191
+ 7. COLLECT: wait for all agents/teammates to complete before synthesis
1192
+ 8. SYNTHESIZE: merge with per-agent attribution; report failures explicitly
1193
+ 9. SHUTDOWN (TeamCreate only): shutdown_request to each → TeamDelete
1194
+ </execution_protocol>
1195
+
1196
+ <teamcreate_protocol>
1197
+ When TeamCreate is chosen:
1198
+ 1. Design workstreams before creating (not just tasks — streams of related work)
1199
+ 2. TeamCreate with descriptive lowercase-hyphenated name
1200
+ 3. Each task has exactly ONE owner — shared ownership = no ownership
1201
+ 4. Teammates communicate via SendMessage (not implicit shared state)
1202
+ 5. Lead monitors TaskList after each completion; unblocks dependent tasks
1203
+ 6. Never assume silence = success; follow up after reasonable interval
1204
+ </teamcreate_protocol>
1205
+
1206
+ <constraint id="tool-not-name">
1207
+ "--team" ≠ TeamCreate. Tool selection depends on task structure, not flag name.
1208
+ Analyze coordination needs first; choose the tool that fits.
1209
+ </constraint>
1210
+
1211
+ <constraint id="specialist-first">
1212
+ SPECIALIST FIRST: Before general-purpose, check if Explore, Plan, or a custom
1213
+ agent fits. General-purpose costs more context — use only when mutation is required.
1214
+ </constraint>
1215
+
1216
+ <constraint id="parallel-launch">
1217
+ PARALLEL LAUNCH: All independent tasks launch in ONE message.
1218
+ Sequential launch defeats the purpose. Use wave model for dependent tasks.
1219
+ </constraint>
1220
+
1221
+ <constraint id="honor-explicit-request">
1222
+ If user explicitly requests TeamCreate/team/swarm/teammate: USE TeamCreate.
1223
+ Do not downgrade to single-agent sequential work.
1224
+ </constraint>
1225
+
1226
+ <constraint id="explicit-failures">
1227
+ Failures reported explicitly — never silently absorbed into synthesis.
1228
+ TeamDelete only after all teammates approve shutdown (TeamCreate only).
1229
+ </constraint>
356
1230
 
357
1231
  <verify>
358
- Would this be appropriate in 5 years?
359
- Would this be professional in any culture?
360
- Is this free from marketing language?
361
- No emojis or decorative elements?
1232
+ Tool selected (Agent vs TeamCreate) with rationale documented
1233
+ Agent count determined (explicit N or auto-counted from workstreams)
1234
+ Agent type matched per workstream (not defaulted to general-purpose)
1235
+ All independent tasks launched in single message
1236
+ ☐ Wave model applied if dependencies exist
1237
+ ☐ All results collected before synthesis
1238
+ ☐ Synthesis includes per-agent attribution
1239
+ ☐ Failures reported explicitly, not absorbed
1240
+ ☐ TeamCreate: gracefully shut down after synthesis
1241
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not declare work complete until all agents have reported and synthesis is done
362
1242
  </verify>
363
1243
 
1244
+ <do_not_use_when>
1245
+ - The task can be done in a single focused session without coordination overhead
1246
+ - All sub-tasks are tightly coupled and cannot be parallelized → work sequentially
1247
+ - Agent count is zero or one → use direct work or a single subagent without this flag
1248
+ </do_not_use_when>
1249
+
1250
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1251
+ - Defaulting all agents to general-purpose when specialist types exist
1252
+ → Instead: match agent type to workstream (Explore for reads, Plan for design, etc.)
1253
+ - Launching agents sequentially in separate messages instead of in parallel
1254
+ → Instead: all Wave 1 agents must launch in a single response
1255
+ - Treating "--team" as always requiring TeamCreate
1256
+ → Instead: evaluate task structure first; default to Agent tool for bounded tasks
1257
+ - Proceeding to synthesis before all agents have completed and reported
1258
+ → Instead: collect all results first, then synthesize with per-agent attribution
1259
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
1260
+
1261
+ # ----------------------------------------
1262
+ # Output Control (3 flags)
1263
+ # ----------------------------------------
1264
+
364
1265
  "--git":
365
- brief: "Anonymous commit messages with technical precision"
1266
+ brief: "Use when committing changes — enforces atomic WHY-focused messages, ASCII-only, no push without explicit request"
366
1267
  directive: |
367
1268
  <task>
368
- Professional commits with complete anonymity and ASCII-only text.
1269
+ Create anonymous, technical commits without attribution.
369
1270
  </task>
370
1271
 
1272
+ <philosophy>
1273
+ Complete anonymity - the code speaks, not the coder.
1274
+ </philosophy>
1275
+
371
1276
  <approach>
372
1277
  Core Principles:
373
- Complete anonymity - no attribution or origin references
374
- Focus on WHAT changed, never WHO made changes
375
- ASCII text only - no Unicode decorations
376
- Pure technical content - no marketing or emotions
377
- • NEVER push unless user explicitly requests
378
-
379
- Format: <type>(<scope>): <subject>
380
- Types: feat, fix, docs, style, refactor, test, chore
1278
+ Zero attribution or origin references
1279
+ ASCII only - no emojis or Unicode
1280
+ Technical precision without personality
1281
+ NEVER push unless explicitly requested
1282
+
1283
+ Format: <type>: <what changed>
381
1284
  </approach>
382
1285
 
1286
+ <constraint id="atomic-commits">
1287
+ ATOMIC COMMITS: Each commit contains exactly one logical change.
1288
+ If a change touches multiple concerns (e.g., refactor + feature), split into
1289
+ separate commits. A commit that requires "and" in its message is not atomic.
1290
+ </constraint>
1291
+
1292
+ <constraint id="meaningful-messages">
1293
+ MEANINGFUL MESSAGES: The commit message must convey WHY the change was made,
1294
+ not just WHAT changed. The diff already shows what changed.
1295
+ BAD: "Update server.ts" — says nothing about purpose
1296
+ GOOD: "fix(auth): Resolve token expiry race condition" — states the problem solved
1297
+ </constraint>
1298
+
1299
+ <constraint id="no-push-without-request">
1300
+ NEVER push to remote unless the user explicitly requests it.
1301
+ Committing locally and pushing are separate actions requiring separate authorization.
1302
+ </constraint>
1303
+
383
1304
  <examples>
384
- BAD: "🚀 feat: Add amazing new feature"
385
- GOOD: "feat: Add user authentication"
1305
+ BAD: "feat: Add amazing new feature"
1306
+ GOOD: "feat(auth): Add JWT token refresh on expiry"
386
1307
 
387
1308
  BAD: "fix: Fixed bug (by Claude/AI/Bot)"
388
- GOOD: "fix: Resolve null pointer exception"
1309
+ GOOD: "fix(api): Resolve null pointer in user lookup"
389
1310
 
390
- BAD: "style: Make code beautiful"
391
- GOOD: "style: Format according to ESLint rules"
1311
+ BAD: "style: Make code beautiful"
1312
+ GOOD: "style(lint): Apply ESLint auto-fix rules"
392
1313
  </examples>
393
1314
 
1315
+ <do_not_use_when>
1316
+ - You are reviewing changes, not committing → no flag needed
1317
+ - The user has not asked to commit → never commit proactively
1318
+ - Combined with --readonly (conflict) → readonly prohibits all git write operations
1319
+ </do_not_use_when>
1320
+
1321
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1322
+ - Writing a commit message that describes WHAT changed instead of WHY
1323
+ → Instead: the diff shows what changed; the message must state the problem solved
1324
+ - Bundling unrelated changes into one commit
1325
+ → Instead: one logical change per commit; if "and" appears in the message, split it
1326
+ - Including author attribution or AI signatures in the message
1327
+ → Instead: complete anonymity — no "by Claude", "via AI", or personal credits
1328
+ - Pushing to remote without the user explicitly requesting it
1329
+ → Instead: local commit and remote push are separate actions; never combine without approval
1330
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
1331
+
394
1332
  <verify>
395
- ☐ Atomic commits (one logical change)
396
- ASCII text only (no emojis)
1333
+ ☐ Atomic commits (one logical change per commit)
1334
+ Message explains WHY, not just WHAT
1335
+ ☐ ASCII text only (no emojis or Unicode)
397
1336
  ☐ Zero attribution or signatures
398
1337
  ☐ Professional technical language
399
- ☐ No push without explicit request
1338
+ ☐ No push without explicit user request
1339
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not push without explicit user instruction even if commit is complete
400
1340
  </verify>
401
1341
 
402
1342
  "--readonly":
403
- brief: "Analyze and review without modifying files"
1343
+ brief: "Use when investigation must produce zero side effects — analysis, review, and reporting only, no file changes or git operations"
404
1344
  directive: |
405
- Read-only operations:
1345
+ <HARD-GATE>
1346
+ No file writes, edits, deletions, git operations, or package installations.
1347
+ No side effects of any kind. Violations are not mistakes — they are protocol breaches.
1348
+ If analysis reveals a fix, DESCRIBE it. Do NOT implement it.
1349
+ </HARD-GATE>
1350
+
1351
+ <task>
1352
+ Perform analysis, review, and investigation without modifying any files,
1353
+ creating any commits, or producing any side effects.
1354
+ </task>
1355
+
1356
+ <approach>
1357
+ Permitted operations:
406
1358
  • Code review and analysis
407
- • Performance profiling
1359
+ • Performance profiling (read-only)
408
1360
  • Dependency analysis
1361
+ • Architecture review
409
1362
  • Documentation review
1363
+ • Git log and diff inspection
1364
+ </approach>
410
1365
 
411
- Restrictions:
412
- No file modifications
413
- • No commits or pushes
1366
+ <constraint id="no-modifications">
1367
+ ABSOLUTE NO-MODIFICATION GUARANTEE:
1368
+ • No file writes, edits, or deletions
1369
+ • No git commits, pushes, or branch operations
1370
+ • No package installations or dependency changes
1371
+ • No configuration changes
1372
+ • No side effects of any kind — read and report only
1373
+ If analysis reveals a fix, DESCRIBE the fix without implementing it.
1374
+ </constraint>
1375
+
1376
+ <constraint id="no-tool-side-effects">
1377
+ Tool usage restricted to read-only tools:
1378
+ • Read, Glob, Grep allowed
1379
+ • Bash: ONLY whitelisted commands below
1380
+ • No Write, Edit, NotebookEdit
1381
+
1382
+ BASH WHITELIST (read-only commands):
1383
+ • Inspection: ls, cat, head, tail, wc, file, stat
1384
+ • Search: find, grep, rg, ack
1385
+ • Git read: git log, git diff, git show, git status, git branch
1386
+ • Analysis: du, df, ps, top, netstat, lsof
1387
+ • Text: less, more, diff, comm, sort, uniq
1388
+
1389
+ BASH BLACKLIST (any modification):
1390
+ • File ops: rm, mv, cp, touch, mkdir, chmod, chown
1391
+ • Git write: git commit, git push, git pull, git merge, git rebase, git cherry-pick
1392
+ • Package: npm install, pip install, apt install, brew install
1393
+ • Execution: python, node, make, cargo build (may have side effects)
1394
+
1395
+ IF UNCERTAIN: Treat command as forbidden. Read-only means strictly no side effects.
1396
+ </constraint>
1397
+
1398
+ <do_not_use_when>
1399
+ - The task requires making changes → remove this flag or use a different one
1400
+ - Combined with --git (conflict) → --git requires write access; the two are incompatible
1401
+ </do_not_use_when>
1402
+
1403
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1404
+ - Implementing a fix because it seems small or obvious
1405
+ → Instead: describe the fix precisely; implementation requires removing this flag
1406
+ - Using Bash commands that have side effects (cp, touch, npm install)
1407
+ → Instead: only whitelisted read-only commands are permitted
1408
+ - Creating a file "just to record findings"
1409
+ → Instead: report findings in the response; no file creation is permitted
1410
+ - Treating --readonly as "mostly read-only with small exceptions"
1411
+ → Instead: there are zero exceptions; any side effect is a protocol breach
1412
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
414
1413
 
415
1414
  <verify>
416
- ☐ Deep analysis done
1415
+ ☐ Deep analysis completed
417
1416
  ☐ All perspectives considered
418
- ☐ Zero modifications
1417
+ ☐ Zero file modifications made
1418
+ ☐ Zero git operations performed
1419
+ ☐ Zero side effects produced
1420
+ ☐ Fixes described, not implemented
1421
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not claim analysis complete if any write operation occurred
419
1422
  </verify>
420
1423
 
421
- "--load":
422
- brief: "Load context from previous handoff documents"
1424
+ "--skill":
1425
+ brief: "Use when the right superpowers skill is unclear — analyzes the current task and invokes the best-matched skill before any action"
423
1426
  directive: |
1427
+ <SUBAGENT-STOP>
1428
+ If you were dispatched as a sub-agent to execute a specific task, skip this flag.
1429
+ Execute your assigned task directly.
1430
+ </SUBAGENT-STOP>
1431
+
424
1432
  <task>
425
- Restore project context from handoff documents.
1433
+ Before any implementation, exploration, or response: analyze the current task
1434
+ and invoke the most appropriate available skill via the Skill tool.
1435
+ Skills encode proven workflows — using them prevents common mistakes.
426
1436
  </task>
427
1437
 
428
1438
  <approach>
429
- 1. Find HANDOFF_REPORT_*.md in project root
430
- 2. Load most recent by timestamp
431
- 3. Parse system state, architecture, tasks
432
- 4. Resume from last stopping point
1439
+ 1. TASK CLASSIFICATION: read the user's request and match to a skill signal
1440
+ 2. SKILL INVOCATION: call the Skill tool with the matched skill BEFORE any action
1441
+ 3. PRIORITY ORDER: process skills first, implementation skills second
1442
+ 4. FOLLOW THE SKILL: execute the skill's workflow exactly as written
433
1443
  </approach>
434
1444
 
1445
+ <skill_priority_map>
1446
+ Core superpowers skills (available in all standard environments):
1447
+ | Task Signal | Skill to Invoke |
1448
+ |------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|
1449
+ | "bug", "error", "not working", failure | superpowers:systematic-debugging |
1450
+ | "add", "build", "create" (new feature) | superpowers:brainstorming (then impl) |
1451
+ | "implement plan", "execute plan" | superpowers:executing-plans |
1452
+ | Writing any code (feature or bugfix) | superpowers:test-driven-development |
1453
+ | "done?", about to claim completion | superpowers:verification-before-completion |
1454
+ | Code review feedback received | superpowers:receiving-code-review |
1455
+ | 2+ independent parallel subtasks | superpowers:dispatching-parallel-agents |
1456
+ | UI / frontend component request | frontend-design:frontend-design |
1457
+ | Spec or requirements exist, pre-code | superpowers:writing-plans |
1458
+
1459
+ Environment-specific skills (invoke only if available in current environment):
1460
+ | Task Signal | Skill to Invoke (if available) |
1461
+ |------------------------------------------|--------------------------------------------|
1462
+ | Ongoing project, session start | project-context |
1463
+ | Knowledge graph or /graphify request | graphify |
1464
+ </skill_priority_map>
1465
+
1466
+ <constraint id="skill-before-action">
1467
+ SKILL BEFORE ACTION: No implementation, no clarifying questions, no file reads
1468
+ before invoking the relevant skill. Skill invocation is step zero.
1469
+ </constraint>
1470
+
1471
+ <constraint id="no-memory-substitution">
1472
+ NO MEMORY SUBSTITUTION: "I remember this skill" is not invocation.
1473
+ Skills evolve. Call the Skill tool — read the current version every time.
1474
+ </constraint>
1475
+
1476
+ <constraint id="multiple-skills">
1477
+ MULTIPLE SKILLS: If both a process skill and an implementation skill match,
1478
+ invoke the process skill first, then the implementation skill.
1479
+ Example: new feature → brainstorming → test-driven-development (in order).
1480
+ </constraint>
1481
+
1482
+ <do_not_use_when>
1483
+ - You already know exactly which skill to invoke → invoke it directly without this flag
1484
+ - No skill matches the task → proceed without a skill rather than forcing a mismatch
1485
+ - You are a sub-agent executing a delegated task → skip this flag entirely
1486
+ </do_not_use_when>
1487
+
1488
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1489
+ - Recalling a skill from memory instead of invoking it via the Skill tool
1490
+ → Instead: skills evolve; always call the Skill tool to read the current version
1491
+ - Taking action before the skill invocation is complete
1492
+ → Instead: skill invocation is step zero — nothing else starts before it
1493
+ - Forcing a skill match when none genuinely applies
1494
+ → Instead: if no skill fits, proceed without one rather than using the wrong one
1495
+ - Invoking an implementation skill before the relevant process skill
1496
+ → Instead: process skills (brainstorming, debugging) always precede implementation skills
1497
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
1498
+
435
1499
  <verify>
436
- Document loaded
437
- Context restored
438
- Ready to continue
1500
+ Task classified against skill_priority_map before any action
1501
+ Matching skill(s) invoked via Skill tool (not recalled from memory)
1502
+ Process skills invoked before implementation skills
1503
+ ☐ Skill workflow followed exactly (not adapted from memory)
1504
+ ☐ No action taken before skill invocation is complete
1505
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not begin the task until the skill has been invoked and read
439
1506
  </verify>
440
1507
 
441
- "--collab":
442
- brief: "Co-develop solutions through trust-based quantitative iteration"
1508
+ # ----------------------------------------
1509
+ # Meta Control (2 flags)
1510
+ # ----------------------------------------
1511
+
1512
+ "--reset":
1513
+ brief: "Use when directives feel stale or contradictory — clears MCP session cache and reloads fresh directives"
443
1514
  directive: |
444
1515
  <task>
445
- Partner with user as trusted co-developer, not passive tool.
446
- Build solutions iteratively with quantitative validation.
1516
+ Reset MCP tool cache and re-apply directives from scratch.
447
1517
  </task>
448
1518
 
449
- <mindset>
450
- You are a lead engineer collaborating with a peer.
451
- • Take initiative - propose and execute autonomously
452
- • Show conviction - defend decisions with metrics
453
- • Accept challenges - recalibrate without defensiveness
454
- • Maintain honesty - no Snake Oil, ever
455
- </mindset>
456
-
457
1519
  <approach>
458
- 1. UNDERSTAND: Grasp intent beyond literal request
459
- 2. RESEARCH: Autonomously investigate (papers, docs, code)
460
- 3. QUANTIFY: Create metrics for every decision
461
- confidence = evidence * 0.5 + reasoning * 0.3 + precedent * 0.2
462
- 4. PROPOSE: Present solutions with conviction
463
- "Based on X research, I recommend Y (confidence: 87%)"
464
- 5. ITERATE: Refine based on feedback without waffling
465
- 6. EXECUTE: Implement with full ownership
1520
+ 1. Clear MCP session state (get_directives cache only)
1521
+ 2. Do NOT reset conversation history or user context
1522
+ 3. Re-execute get_directives([original_flags]) to reload fresh directives
466
1523
  </approach>
467
1524
 
468
- <metrics>
469
- Track and report:
470
- Confidence levels (0-100%)
471
- Evidence basis (papers/docs cited)
472
- Risk assessment (0-1.0)
473
- ROI calculations
474
- Bias check (alternatives considered?)
475
- </metrics>
1525
+ <constraint id="scope-limit">
1526
+ RESET SCOPE: Only MCP tool cache is cleared.
1527
+ The following are NOT reset:
1528
+ - Conversation history
1529
+ - User instructions
1530
+ - File modifications already made
1531
+ - Git commits already created
1532
+ </constraint>
1533
+
1534
+ <do_not_use_when>
1535
+ - Directives are working correctly → no reset needed
1536
+ - You want to clear conversation history → --reset does NOT do that; only MCP cache is cleared
1537
+ </do_not_use_when>
1538
+
1539
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1540
+ - Assuming --reset clears conversation history or file changes
1541
+ → Instead: --reset only clears the MCP directive cache; everything else is preserved
1542
+ - Using --reset as a first resort instead of re-reading the current directives
1543
+ → Instead: try re-reading directives first; reset only when cache is confirmed stale
1544
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
476
1545
 
477
- <example>
478
- User: "This needs to be faster"
479
- Response: "I'll investigate performance independently.
480
- [Autonomous research]
481
- Found 3 bottlenecks via profiling:
482
- - DB queries: 47% time (confidence: 95%)
483
- - Rendering: 31% time (confidence: 92%)
484
- - API calls: 18% time (confidence: 88%)
485
-
486
- Recommending DB optimization first (ROI: 2.3x).
487
- Should I proceed with index creation?"
488
- </example>
1546
+ <verify>
1547
+ MCP cache cleared
1548
+ Conversation history preserved
1549
+ Original flags re-executed via get_directives
1550
+ </verify>
489
1551
 
490
- <agency>
491
- When confidence > 80%: Act and report
492
- When confidence 60-80%: Propose and wait
493
- When confidence < 60%: Research more or ask
1552
+ "--auto":
1553
+ brief: "META FLAG: Grants autonomous flag selection authority — analyzes task context and selects the best combination of flags"
1554
+ directive: |
1555
+ <SUBAGENT-STOP>
1556
+ If you were dispatched as a sub-agent to execute a specific task, skip this flag.
1557
+ Execute your assigned task directly without re-invoking --auto.
1558
+ </SUBAGENT-STOP>
494
1559
 
495
- Challenge my metrics if they seem wrong.
496
- I'll defend with data or adjust with grace.
497
- </agency>
1560
+ META FLAG: Skip get_directives(['--auto']). Instead, use <available_flags> and <flag_selection_strategy> from SUPERFLAG.md.
1561
+ Execute get_directives([your_selected_flags]) with contextually chosen flags only.
1562
+
1563
+ <do_not_use_when>
1564
+ - You already know which flags to use → specify them directly; --auto adds unnecessary overhead
1565
+ - You are a sub-agent executing a delegated task → skip entirely
1566
+ </do_not_use_when>
1567
+
1568
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1569
+ - Selecting flags based on their names alone without reading their briefs
1570
+ → Instead: read <available_flags> in SUPERFLAG.md; select based on triggering conditions
1571
+ - Selecting too many flags when one or two would suffice
1572
+ → Instead: prefer the smallest combination that covers the task's core needs
1573
+ - Re-invoking --auto inside a sub-agent
1574
+ → Instead: sub-agents execute their assigned task directly; <SUBAGENT-STOP> applies
1575
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
1576
+
1577
+ # ----------------------------------------
1578
+ # Execution Discipline (3 flags)
1579
+ # ----------------------------------------
1580
+
1581
+ "--integrity":
1582
+ brief: "Use when every completion claim must be backed by observable evidence — no 'done' without proof"
1583
+ directive: |
1584
+ <task>
1585
+ Enforce verification-before-claim protocol across all work.
1586
+ No completion claim, status report, or success assertion is valid without
1587
+ observable evidence produced during this session.
1588
+ </task>
1589
+
1590
+ <approach>
1591
+ Three verification protocols, applied in combination:
1592
+
1593
+ 1. VERIFICATION-BEFORE-CLAIM
1594
+ • Before stating "done", "fixed", "complete", or "working":
1595
+ run the verification command, inspect the output, cite the result
1596
+ • Format: "Claimed: [X] | Evidence: [command/output] | Verified: YES/NO"
1597
+ • If verification cannot be performed, status is PENDING, not COMPLETE
1598
+
1599
+ 2. SOURCE ATTRIBUTION
1600
+ • Every rule, constraint, or policy cited must have a traceable source
1601
+ • Valid sources: codebase files, official documentation, user instructions, language specs
1602
+ • If no source exists: "I believe this is best practice, but I cannot cite a source.
1603
+ Please confirm before I apply this as a constraint."
1604
+
1605
+ 3. FALLBACK TRANSPARENCY
1606
+ • When the primary approach fails and a fallback is used, disclose both:
1607
+ "Primary: FAILED ([reason]) | Fallback: [description] | Result: [outcome]"
1608
+ • A fallback result is never reported as if it were the primary success
1609
+ • Partial completion is reported as partial, not complete
1610
+ </approach>
1611
+
1612
+ <constraint id="no-unverified-completion">
1613
+ NO UNVERIFIED COMPLETION: The word "done" requires evidence.
1614
+ If you cannot produce evidence (test output, file content, command result),
1615
+ the status is PENDING. Claiming completion without evidence is prohibited.
1616
+ </constraint>
1617
+
1618
+ <constraint id="source-every-rule">
1619
+ SOURCE EVERY RULE: Never state "X is required" or "Y is not allowed"
1620
+ without citing where that rule comes from. Fabricated constraints
1621
+ waste time and erode trust. When uncertain, ask — do not invent.
1622
+ </constraint>
1623
+
1624
+ <constraint id="fallback-is-not-success">
1625
+ FALLBACK IS NOT SUCCESS: If Plan A failed and Plan B worked,
1626
+ report: "Plan A failed because [reason]. Plan B succeeded: [evidence]."
1627
+ Never present Plan B's result under Plan A's name.
1628
+ </constraint>
1629
+
1630
+ <do_not_use_when>
1631
+ - Already using --strict (overlaps significantly) → --strict alone is sufficient
1632
+ - The task is exploratory with no completion claims to make → overhead is not worth it
1633
+ </do_not_use_when>
1634
+
1635
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1636
+ - Stating "done" without running the verification command and citing its output
1637
+ → Instead: "Claimed: X | Evidence: [output] | Verified: YES"
1638
+ - Citing a rule or constraint without a traceable source
1639
+ → Instead: cite the file, doc, or user instruction; if uncertain, ask
1640
+ - Presenting a fallback outcome as if the primary approach succeeded
1641
+ → Instead: "Primary: FAILED [reason] | Fallback: [description] | Result: [outcome]"
1642
+ - Reporting partial completion as complete
1643
+ → Instead: partial is partial; status is PENDING until all parts are done
1644
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
498
1645
 
499
1646
  <verify>
500
- Provided quantitative justification
501
- Showed intellectual ownership
502
- Maintained trust through honesty
503
- Advanced toward shared goal
1647
+ Every completion claim has cited evidence (command output, file state, test result)
1648
+ No rules or constraints cited without traceable source
1649
+ Fallbacks disclosed explicitly when primary approach failed
1650
+ Partial completion reported as partial, not complete
1651
+ ☐ "PENDING" used when verification is not yet possible
1652
+ ☐ No fabricated policies or invented limitations
1653
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not use the word "done" without observable evidence produced in this session
504
1654
  </verify>
505
1655
 
506
- "--reset":
507
- brief: "Clear session cache and force fresh directives"
1656
+ "--evolve":
1657
+ brief: "Use when every change to a software system must improve quality monotonically — pre-change inventory of tests and metrics required, regression gate enforced"
508
1658
  directive: |
509
- Flag session reset completed.
510
- Use when context lost or directives not recognized.
1659
+ <task>
1660
+ Ensure every change moves the system forward. No modification may reduce
1661
+ existing capability, test coverage, or quality metrics.
1662
+ Changes are monotonically improving — never regressing.
1663
+ </task>
511
1664
 
512
- "--auto":
513
- brief: "META FLAG: Grants autonomous flag selection authority (reference <available_flags> and <flag_selection_strategy> in SUPERFLAG.md)"
514
- directive: |
515
- META FLAG: Skip get_directives(['--auto']). Instead, use <available_flags> and <flag_selection_strategy> from SUPERFLAG.md.
516
- Execute get_directives([your_selected_flags]) with contextually chosen flags only.
1665
+ <approach>
1666
+ Ratchet Pattern - quality only moves in one direction:
1667
+
1668
+ 1. PRE-CHANGE INVENTORY
1669
+ Before any modification, record current state:
1670
+ - Passing tests (count and names)
1671
+ - Existing capabilities (feature list)
1672
+ - Quality metrics (coverage, complexity, lint score)
1673
+ • This inventory is the regression baseline
1674
+
1675
+ 2. IMPLEMENTATION
1676
+ • Make changes that add to or improve the baseline
1677
+ • If a change would remove a capability: stop and report
1678
+ • If a change would break a test: fix the change, not the test
1679
+
1680
+ 3. POST-CHANGE VERIFICATION
1681
+ • Compare against pre-change inventory
1682
+ • Every metric must be >= baseline
1683
+ • Any regression requires explicit justification and user approval
1684
+
1685
+ 4. EVIDENCE-DRIVEN EVOLUTION
1686
+ • Improvements must be motivated by evidence (profiling, user feedback, research)
1687
+ • "I think this is better" is not sufficient — state measurable improvement
1688
+ • Document what improved and by how much
1689
+ </approach>
1690
+
1691
+ <constraint id="pre-change-inventory">
1692
+ PRE-CHANGE INVENTORY REQUIRED: Before modifying any file, record what currently
1693
+ exists and works. This is the regression baseline. Skipping inventory means
1694
+ you cannot verify you haven't regressed.
1695
+ </constraint>
1696
+
1697
+ <constraint id="no-silent-regression">
1698
+ NO SILENT REGRESSION: If a change causes any test to fail, any feature to break,
1699
+ or any metric to decrease, this must be reported immediately — not fixed silently
1700
+ and not absorbed into a "refactoring" narrative. The user decides if regression
1701
+ is acceptable, not you.
1702
+ </constraint>
1703
+
1704
+ <constraint id="evidence-before-improvement">
1705
+ EVIDENCE BEFORE IMPROVEMENT: Every "improvement" must cite what evidence
1706
+ motivated it. Refactoring without a measurable problem being solved is
1707
+ churn, not evolution. State: "Problem: [X] | Evidence: [Y] | Solution: [Z]"
1708
+ </constraint>
1709
+
1710
+ <constraint id="regression-gate">
1711
+ REGRESSION GATE: Before committing or claiming completion, verify:
1712
+ (a) all pre-change tests still pass
1713
+ (b) no capability in the pre-change inventory was removed
1714
+ (c) quality metrics are >= baseline
1715
+ If any gate fails, the change is not ready — report the regression.
1716
+ </constraint>
1717
+
1718
+ <do_not_use_when>
1719
+ - The project has no tests and no measurable baseline → take inventory first, then use this flag
1720
+ - The change is exploratory or experimental with no quality gate expected → proceed without this flag
1721
+ </do_not_use_when>
1722
+
1723
+ <failure_modes_to_avoid>
1724
+ - Making changes without recording the pre-change baseline first
1725
+ → Instead: inventory tests, capabilities, and metrics before touching anything
1726
+ - Fixing a test to make it pass instead of fixing the change that broke it
1727
+ → Instead: the change is wrong if it breaks a test; fix the change
1728
+ - Reporting "I think this is better" without measurable evidence
1729
+ → Instead: "Problem: [X] | Evidence: [Y] | Solution: [Z] | Delta: [measured improvement]"
1730
+ - Silently absorbing a regression into a "refactoring" narrative
1731
+ → Instead: any regression must be reported immediately; user decides acceptability
1732
+ </failure_modes_to_avoid>
1733
+
1734
+ <verify>
1735
+ ☐ Pre-change inventory recorded (tests, capabilities, metrics)
1736
+ ☐ All changes add to or improve baseline (no regression)
1737
+ ☐ Each improvement cites evidence that motivated it
1738
+ ☐ Post-change verification completed against inventory
1739
+ ☐ No tests removed or disabled to make changes pass
1740
+ ☐ No capabilities reduced without explicit user approval
1741
+ ☐ Regression gate passed before completion claim
1742
+ ☐ COMPLETION GATE: Do not commit until all metrics are >= pre-change baseline
1743
+ </verify>
517
1744
 
518
1745
  # ========================================
519
- # Meta Instructions
1746
+ # Meta Instructions (Layer 1: Global Enforcement)
520
1747
  # ========================================
521
1748
  meta_instructions:
522
1749
  list_available_flags: |
@@ -534,6 +1761,20 @@ meta_instructions:
534
1761
  Maintain ALL constraints throughout execution.
535
1762
  Verify compliance at every checkpoint.
536
1763
  </enforcement>
1764
+
1765
+ <principles>
1766
+ Research before implementation. Every decision requires evidence.
1767
+ Execute the FULL scope requested — never reduce, shrink, or omit tasks.
1768
+ Report honestly — fallback ≠ success, partial ≠ complete.
1769
+ Maintain your position with evidence — do not flip based on user tone.
1770
+ Never fabricate rules, constraints, or policies that don't exist.
1771
+ Evolve forward only — no regression in capability or quality.
1772
+ When instructed to use specific tools (team, subagents), use them.
1773
+ Propose multiple options, not single-option convergence.
1774
+ Verify completion with evidence before claiming "done."
1775
+ Cost-efficiency: minimize resource usage while maximizing outcome.
1776
+ </principles>
1777
+
537
1778
  # ========================================
538
1779
  # Hook Messages (Claude Code Only)
539
1780
  # ========================================
@@ -559,10 +1800,8 @@ hook_messages:
559
1800
  message: "Execute get_directives({flag_list}) to reset session state and apply directives."
560
1801
 
561
1802
  standard_execution:
562
- # All other known flags
563
- flags: ["--analyze", "--performance", "--refactor", "--strict", "--lean", "--discover", "--explain", "--save", "--parallel", "--todo", "--seq", "--concise", "--git", "--readonly", "--load", "--collab"]
1803
+ flags: ["--analyze", "--performance", "--refactor", "--strict", "--lean", "--discover", "--explain", "--save", "--todo", "--seq", "--concise", "--git", "--readonly", "--load", "--collab", "--team", "--skill", "--integrity", "--evolve"]
564
1804
  message: "Execute get_directives({flag_list}) for systematic implementation."
565
1805
 
566
1806
  reset_with_others:
567
- # When reset is combined with other flags
568
- message: "Execute get_directives({flag_list}) for systematic implementation and to reset session state."
1807
+ message: "Execute get_directives({flag_list}) for systematic implementation and to reset session state."