before-starting-work

Review recent activity, open PRs, and architecture documents before coding.

Updated Aug 27, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/TimChild/PaperTrade --skill before-starting-work
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: before-starting-work
Source: https://github.com/TimChild/PaperTrade/tree/main/.claude/skills/before-starting-work
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/TimChild/PaperTrade --skill before-starting-work

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill guides users through essential pre-work steps to ensure effective project onboarding, coordination, and task prioritization before starting implementation.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Recent Activity Review: Summarizes recent agent activity and progress reports to inform upcoming work.
  • PR Coordination: Checks open pull requests related to current files and features to prevent conflicts.
  • Architecture Alignment: Provides direct access to architecture documentation and task specifications for adherence.
  • Code State Inspection: Assists in understanding existing code patterns and files before modification.
  • Context Skimming: Guides users through key project documents to grasp current priorities and designs.
  • Quick Checks: Offers a one-liner to verify readiness efficiently.

Quick Start

Review the latest progress report and current open PRs to prepare for work escalation.

Frequently Asked Questions about before-starting-work

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I prepare for coding tasks by reviewing project status and open PRs?

To prepare for coding tasks, review recent agent activity, check open pull requests for potential conflicts, and skim architecture documents to ensure your development efforts are aligned with the current project context.

What is pre-work checklist for project initialization in software engineering?

A pre-work checklist for project initialization is a sequence of steps to review recent activity, open PRs, and architecture documents, ensuring team members have comprehensive situational awareness before starting implementation.

How to prevent code conflicts by checking open pull requests before starting work?

Prevent code conflicts by checking open pull requests related to your current files and features, allowing you to understand existing code patterns and coordinate with the team before modifying shared project resources.

Can I use a pre-work checklist to align with architecture documents before implementation?

Yes, you can use a pre-work checklist to gain direct access to architecture documentation and task specifications, ensuring strict adherence to designs and focused team coordination before writing any code.

What's the best way to understand existing code patterns before modifying files?

The best way to understand existing code patterns is to inspect the current code state and skim key project documents, which clarifies current priorities and prevents misaligned development efforts.

Does project setup require reviewing recent progress reports before escalating work?

Yes, project setup requires reviewing the latest progress reports and current open PRs to verify readiness efficiently, ensuring you have the necessary situational awareness before escalating implementation tasks.