debug

Guide structured root-cause debugging with evidence gathering and hypothesis testing.

17|Updated Mar 30, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/alexiolan/craft-skills --skill debug-alexiolan
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: debug
Source: https://github.com/alexiolan/craft-skills/tree/main/skills/debug
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/alexiolan/craft-skills --skill debug-alexiolan

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Helps engineers perform structured root-cause debugging before writing any patch, reducing wasted effort and regression risk.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Phase-driven root-cause investigation with evidence gathering and reproducibility
  • Systematic data collection, hypothesis testing, and controlled implementation
  • Escalation guidelines and anti-pattern avoidance

Quick Start

Describe the bug, reproduce it reliably, and follow the root-cause investigation workflow before proposing any fix.

Frequently Asked Questions about debug

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find the root cause of a bug before writing a code fix?

Root-cause debugging enforces a structured investigation workflow with error reproduction, evidence gathering, and hypothesis testing before implementing any code fix. This prevents premature patches and reduces regression risk.

What is the best way to structure a software debugging session?

A structured debugging session follows Phase 1–4 investigation phases, guiding systematic data collection, hypothesis formation, and controlled implementation. This ensures fixes are based on verified evidence rather than guesswork.

How do I stop applying premature fixes during error reproduction?

To stop premature fixes, follow an anti-pattern control workflow that enforces formal evidence collection and escalation rules before proposing any code changes. This guarantees reliable error reproduction is achieved first.

When do I need a structured root-cause investigation for code fixes?

You need structured root-cause investigation when facing complex software bugs where wasted effort and regression risk are high. It enforces evidence gathering and hypothesis testing to ensure safe implementation of fixes.

Can I use a hypothesis-driven approach for quality assurance debugging?

Yes, hypothesis-driven debugging formalizes evidence collection and hypothesis testing during quality assurance workflows. It enforces investigation phases and anti-pattern controls to guide safe, controlled implementation of fixes.

What are the limitations of skipping evidence gathering during debugging?

Skipping evidence gathering leads to wasted effort and higher regression risk because fixes are applied without reliable error reproduction or root-cause verification. Structured investigation phases and escalation rules are required to prevent this.