datalad-get

Fetch annexed content and initialize subdatasets in DataLad datasets.

1|Updated Feb 25, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/bcmcpher/my-skills --skill datalad-get
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: datalad-get
Source: https://github.com/bcmcpher/my-skills/tree/main/plugins/datalad-cli/skills/datalad-get
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/bcmcpher/my-skills --skill datalad-get

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

DataLad contexts often include missing file content or absent subdatasets. This Skill retrieves annexed content and initializes subdatasets so work can proceed without manual dataset setup.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Retrieve annexed content for files and directories within a DataLad dataset.
  • Initialize absent subdatasets to inspect structure or prepare for full data download.
  • Supports selective and recursive retrieval modes to balance bandwidth and depth of fetch.

Quick Start

Fetch the missing content or initialize an absent subdataset by targeting the desired path.

Frequently Asked Questions about datalad-get

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I fetch missing annexed content from a DataLad dataset?

To fetch annexed content from a DataLad dataset, target the desired file or directory path to retrieve missing data from configured siblings. This initializes absent subdatasets and downloads content without requiring manual dataset setup.

What is the best way to initialize absent subdatasets before downloading full data?

Initializing absent subdatasets requires targeting the desired path within your DataLad dataset. This action prepares the dataset structure and retrieves metadata, allowing you to inspect the hierarchy before committing to a full data download.

Can I retrieve DataLad dataset metadata without downloading full file content?

Yes, you can retrieve DataLad dataset metadata without downloading full content by using the -n retrieval mode. This read-only mode fetches structural information and initializes subdatasets while avoiding the bandwidth costs of full file retrieval.

Does datalad-get support recursive retrieval for nested subdatasets?

Yes, datalad-get supports recursive retrieval for nested subdatasets using the -r mode. This allows you to fetch annexed data content and initialize absent subdatasets across the entire dataset hierarchy to your specified depth.

How do I selectively download annexed files to balance bandwidth?

You can selectively download annexed files by targeting specific file or directory paths within your DataLad dataset. This selective retrieval mode fetches only the required content, balancing bandwidth usage against the depth of your data fetch.

Why are my DataLad files missing content after cloning a dataset?

DataLad files are missing content after cloning because datasets often contain annexed file pointers rather than actual data. You must fetch the annexed content from configured siblings to retrieve the missing files and initialize any absent subdatasets.