datalad-untrack

Drop or remove annexed files from local DataLad datasets.

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

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Remove annexed content from local storage or delete a file from a DataLad dataset, helping reclaim disk space and tidy dataset state.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Drop content to free local storage while preserving the dataset pointer, enabling later restoration with get if a remote copy exists.
  • Full remove to delete the file pointer from the dataset history, with a required save to commit the change.
  • Guidance for unlocking annexed files for in-place editing and re-annexing after edits.

Quick Start

Drop or remove a file in a DataLad dataset by specifying its path.

Frequently Asked Questions about datalad-untrack

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I free disk space from annexed files in a DataLad dataset?

You can free disk space from annexed files in a DataLad dataset by dropping the content, which removes local storage while preserving the dataset pointer for later restoration.

What is the difference between dropping and removing a file in DataLad?

Dropping annexed content frees local storage while keeping the file pointer, whereas removing a file deletes the pointer from the dataset history and requires a save to commit.

Can I restore an annexed file after dropping it from local storage?

Yes, you can restore dropped annexed content by using the get command to retrieve the data, provided a remote copy still exists in the dataset.

How do I delete a file completely from a DataLad dataset history?

To delete a file completely from a DataLad dataset, use the remove workflow to delete the file pointer and then run a save command to commit the change to dataset history.

When should I drop annexed content versus removing a file from my dataset?

Drop annexed content to free local storage while keeping the dataset pointer intact, or remove a file when you need to restructure dataset contents and delete the pointer entirely.