background

Manage asynchronous background processes and tmux sessions for concurrent task execution.

Updated Jun 22, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/alangeb/tau --skill background-alangeb
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: background
Source: https://github.com/alangeb/tau/tree/main/src/skills/background
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/alangeb/tau --skill background-alangeb

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This skill solves the challenge of running long-lived processes, monitoring background tasks, and managing concurrent workflows without blocking the primary agent session.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Process Orchestration: Execute shell commands in detached tmux sessions with configurable timeouts and idle detection.
  • Monitoring & Capture: Capture output from background processes or wait for specific success/error patterns using regex.
  • Use Case: Use this skill to trigger a long-running build or test suite in the background while continuing to interact with the agent, then poll the session for completion or error logs.

Quick Start

Use the background skill to run a long build process in a new tmux session and monitor it for success or failure keywords.

Frequently Asked Questions about background

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I run long-running shell commands in the background without blocking the primary session?

To run long-running shell commands in the background without blocking, this skill executes them in detached tmux sessions, enabling asynchronous process monitoring and output capture while the primary agent session remains interactive.

Can I monitor background processes and wait for specific success or error patterns?

Yes, you can monitor background processes and wait for specific patterns, as the skill captures output from tmux sessions and uses regex matching to detect configurable success or error keywords during concurrent task execution.

Do I need tmux installed to manage concurrent tasks and isolated terminal environments?

Yes, you need tmux installed on the host system to manage concurrent tasks, because the skill relies on tmux to handle the session lifecycle and pane interaction for isolated terminal environments.

What is the best way to execute parallel commands and capture output from concurrent workflows?

The best way to execute parallel commands and capture output is using this skill to orchestrate shell commands in isolated tmux sessions, providing configurable timeouts and idle detection for concurrent workflows.

How does tmux session lifecycle management work for asynchronous background processes?

Tmux session lifecycle management works by creating detached sessions for asynchronous background processes, allowing the skill to trigger long-running builds, poll for completion, and capture logs without blocking primary interaction.

Can I trigger a long-running build or test suite in the background and poll for completion later?

Yes, you can trigger a long-running build or test suite in the background and poll for completion later, as the skill facilitates long-running operations in tmux sessions and captures output for later monitoring.