datalad-status

Inspect file changes and dataset state in a DataLad repository.

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

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

DataLad workflows often require a quick, read-only view of the repository state across dataset trees. This Skill provides an exact, non-destructive snapshot of file changes and dataset state.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read-only dataset inspection: report modified, untracked, added, and deleted files without altering data.
  • Contextual guidance: explain DataLad states and annex pointers to help decision-making.
  • Scope-aware: operate in the current directory or a parent directory containing a .datalad/ directory, with optional path scoping.

Quick Start

Run the skill in a DataLad dataset directory to view the current state without making any changes.

Frequently Asked Questions about datalad-status

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I check the status of a DataLad dataset without modifying files?

You can inspect DataLad dataset status by running a read-only snapshot in the current directory or a parent with a .datalad/ directory, which reports modified, untracked, added, and deleted files without altering data.

What is the best way to view untracked files in a DataLad repository?

Viewing untracked files in a DataLad repository requires a read-only status inspection scoped to the current directory or a parent with a .datalad/ directory, optionally accepting a set of specific paths to filter results.

Does DataLad status inspection work with annex pointers?

DataLad status inspection works with annex pointers by reading dataset state and presenting interpreted results that explain annex pointers and DataLad states to assist decision-making.

Can I scope dataset status checks to specific paths in DataLad?

You can scope dataset status checks to specific paths in DataLad by optionally providing a set of paths, while the inspection operates from the current directory or a parent containing a .datalad/ directory.

Do I need the datalad tool installed to inspect repository state?

Inspecting repository state requires the datalad tool to be installed, because the status inspection depends on datalad to read dataset status and present interpreted results without modification.