ase-meta-why

Guide iterative Five-Whys questioning to identify root causes of problems.

44|5|Updated Apr 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/rse/ase --skill ase-meta-why
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ase-meta-why
Source: https://github.com/rse/ase/tree/main/plugin/skills/ase-meta-why
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/rse/ase --skill ase-meta-why

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires yaml, markdown, and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps users perform a thorough root-cause analysis using the Five-Whys technique, enabling them to identify the fundamental reasons behind a problem rather than just addressing surface-level symptoms.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Root-Cause Analysis: Apply the Five-Whys technique to delve into the underlying reasons of a problem.
  • Problem Statement: Users input a problem statement, and the Skill guides them through the analysis process.
  • Step-by-Step Guide: The Skill provides a structured approach, asking "why" repeatedly to reach the root cause.
  • Widened Analysis: With the --width option, the Skill considers multiple potential causes at each level, enhancing the accuracy of the root cause identification.

Quick Start

Analyze the root cause of "Why did the production latency spike after the last deploy?" by running the command: /ase-meta-why --depth 5 --width 1 the production latency spiked after the last deploy

Frequently Asked Questions about ase-meta-why

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I perform root-cause analysis using the Five-Whys technique for software troubleshooting?

To perform root-cause analysis, you input a problem statement and the Skill iteratively asks why to uncover fundamental reasons. It provides a structured step-by-step guide for troubleshooting and process improvement in technical domains.

What is the best way to find the underlying cause of a production latency spike after a deploy?

Finding the underlying cause of a production latency spike requires iterative questioning using the Five-Whys technique. You can analyze this by running the Skill with a problem statement like "the production latency spiked after the last deploy" to reach the fundamental reason.

Can I explore multiple potential causes during Five-Whys root-cause analysis?

Yes, you can explore multiple potential causes during Five-Whys analysis by using the width option. Setting the width parameter allows the analysis to consider several potential causes at each level, enhancing the overall accuracy of root cause identification.

How does iterative questioning work when identifying fundamental reasons behind a problem?

Iterative questioning works by repeatedly asking why based on previous answers until the fundamental reason is reached. The Skill structures this process, typically going five levels deep to move past symptoms and expose the core issue in software development scenarios.

Do I need YAML and Markdown to run this root-cause analysis process?

Yes, YAML and Markdown are required dependencies for this root-cause analysis process. The Skill uses YAML for processing skill instructions and Markdown for formatting the output of the Five-Whys troubleshooting guide.