checkpoint

Write markdown snapshots and HANDOFF.json artifacts to preserve session progress.

Updated Aug 27, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Z5Jonathan-maker/ai-coding-os --skill checkpoint-z5jonathan-maker
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: checkpoint
Source: https://github.com/Z5Jonathan-maker/ai-coding-os/tree/main/claude/skills/checkpoint
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Z5Jonathan-maker/ai-coding-os --skill checkpoint-z5jonathan-maker

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

It prevents lost progress by letting you capture and later restore the exact state of an in-progress coding or writing session, even after context compaction or a new session start.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Manual checkpoint creation: Writes a human-readable snapshot of “where we are” plus execution context you can reuse immediately.
  • Programmatic handoff artifacts (GSD lift): Emits a machine-readable HANDOFF.json alongside the markdown snapshot for downstream tools to ingest.
  • Checkpoint browsing and resume: Supports listing/showing prior checkpoints and resuming from the latest checkpoint on demand.

Quick Start

Tell the assistant to save a checkpoint mid-session so your current phase, open threads, and next steps are written to your local checkpoint files.

Frequently Asked Questions about checkpoint

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I save Claude session state before context compaction?

You save Claude session state by creating a manual checkpoint that generates a human-readable markdown snapshot and a structured HANDOFF.json artifact. This captures your current phase, open threads, and next steps before context is lost.

What is a session checkpoint and when do I need it for workflow continuity?

A session checkpoint is a saved snapshot of your current progress and execution context needed for workflow continuity. You use it during long multi-phase tasks or interruptions to prevent lost progress and leave precise notes for the next session.

How do I resume a Claude workflow from a previous checkpoint?

You resume a Claude workflow by listing and showing prior checkpoints, then loading the latest saved state on demand. This restores the exact session context captured before the interruption or context compaction occurred.

Does this checkpoint tool generate machine-readable handoff artifacts for downstream tools?

Yes, the checkpoint tool generates a machine-readable HANDOFF.json artifact alongside a markdown snapshot. It also copies the latest pointer to ~/.claude/state/HANDOFF.json, allowing downstream tools to ingest the resume state programmatically.

Can I use manual save state to preserve progress during long multi-phase tasks?

Yes, you can use manual save state to preserve progress during long multi-phase tasks. It explicitly writes checkpoint snapshots containing your current phase, open threads, and next steps to ensure no progress is lost across sessions.