ast-refactor

Identify and transform code patterns structurally using AST-based searches and refactoring.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Jimmy-Jung/claude_symbiote --skill ast-refactor
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: ast-refactor
Source: https://github.com/Jimmy-Jung/claude_symbiote/tree/main/.claude/skills/ast-refactor
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Jimmy-Jung/claude_symbiote --skill ast-refactor

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Structural code transformations are error-prone when done by text-based search. This skill provides AST-based search and refactoring to reliably locate and replace code patterns across large codebases.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • AST-based search and replace across JavaScript, TypeScript, Python, and other languages.
  • Pattern-driven refactoring with meta-variables to target specific constructs.
  • Safe transformations with a defined workflow: define pattern, scan, review, apply, and verify.

Quick Start

Refactor a codebase by defining an AST pattern and executing it on your target files.

Frequently Asked Questions about ast-refactor

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I refactor code patterns reliably across a multi-language codebase?

AST-based refactoring locates and replaces code patterns structurally instead of relying on text. It analyzes the abstract syntax tree to ensure safe transformations across large multi-language repositories like JavaScript, TypeScript, and Python.

Why does text-based search and replace fail for large repository refactoring?

Text-based refactoring is brittle because it ignores code structure and easily breaks syntax. Pattern matching with meta-variables on an abstract syntax tree avoids these errors by targeting specific constructs structurally across the codebase.

What is the workflow for safely applying AST pattern search and transformations?

The safe transformation workflow involves five steps: define the AST pattern, scan the target files, review the matched code, apply the structural replacements, and verify the results to ensure accurate multi-language refactoring.

Can I use ast-grep to find and replace specific code constructs with meta-variables?

Yes, ast-grep supports pattern-driven refactoring with meta-variables. You can define structural patterns to target specific code constructs and execute reliable AST-based search and replace operations across your codebase.

Does AST refactoring work for both JavaScript and Python files?

Yes, AST-based search and replace supports multi-language codebases including JavaScript, TypeScript, and Python. It uses structural pattern matching to safely refactor code across different programming languages within the same repository.