align

Validates proposed changes against PROJECT.md goals, scope, and constraints with cited verdicts.

Updated Apr 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/toderian/project_template --skill align-toderian
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: align
Source: https://github.com/toderian/project_template/tree/main/plugins/agents-tasks/skills/align
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/toderian/project_template --skill align-toderian

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? Teams often start non-trivial features without checking whether the work fits the project's stated vision, goals, and scope, leading to scope drift and wasted effort. This Skill reads the repo's PROJECT.md and issues an evidence-backed verdict — ALIGNED, NEEDS_CLARIFICATION, or OUT_OF_SCOPE — before any planning or implementation begins. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Three-axis comparison: Evaluates the proposed change against goal alignment, explicit out-of-scope items, and constraints, citing specific lines from PROJECT.md. - Deterministic verdict mapping: Maps comparison results to one of three verdicts using a fixed decision table, preventing soft or ambiguous judgments. - Structured options on conflict: When a change is OUT_OF_SCOPE, it presents three concrete options — update PROJECT.md, adjust the feature, or cancel and discuss scope — and waits for the user's decision. - Use Case: Before planning a new integration feature, run the alignment check to confirm it advances a stated goal and does not violate the documented out-of-scope list, then carry the verdict into the plan. ## Quick Start Ask the agent to check whether your proposed feature aligns with PROJECT.md before starting planning.

Frequently Asked Questions about align

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I check if a feature aligns with my project goals before building it?

Run the align skill, which reads PROJECT.md at the repo root and compares your proposed change against its goals, out-of-scope items, and constraints. It returns an ALIGNED, NEEDS_CLARIFICATION, or OUT_OF_SCOPE verdict with cited evidence from the file.

What should I do when a proposed change is out of project scope?

The skill presents three options: update PROJECT.md to bring the feature into scope, adjust the feature to fit current scope, or cancel and resolve the scope question first. The user decides; the agent never silently edits PROJECT.md or proceeds with the work.

Does the align skill work without a PROJECT.md file?

No. The skill requires PROJECT.md at the repo root with at least Vision, Goals, and Out of scope sections filled in. If the file is missing or still contains template placeholders, the skill stops and instructs the user to complete it first.

When should I skip the alignment check?

Skip it for mechanical changes like renames, typo fixes, dependency bumps, and formatting, or for bug fixes against documented behavior. Non-trivial features with multiple plausible approaches or uncertain scope should always go through the check before planning.

What are the limitations of an ALIGNED verdict?

ALIGNED only confirms the direction fits the project's stated goals and scope; it is not permission to build anything. Planning, plan critique, and implementation review skills still apply to the shape and quality of the actual work.