diagnosing-bugs

Diagnose root causes of bugs through structured hypothesis testing and regression tests.

6|Updated Nov 30, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/christopher-buss/bedrock --skill diagnosing-bugs-christopher-buss
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: diagnosing-bugs
Source: https://github.com/christopher-buss/bedrock/tree/main/.agents/skills/diagnosing-bugs
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/christopher-buss/bedrock --skill diagnosing-bugs-christopher-buss

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill aids in the diagnosis of hard bugs and performance regressions, providing a structured approach to debugging.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Feedback Loop Construction: Build a precise, reproducible loop to identify the root cause of a bug.
  • Minimization of Reproduction: Shrink the reproduction scenario to the bare minimum that still reveals the issue.
  • Hypothesis Generation: Formulate falsifiable hypotheses based on observed behavior.
  • Instrumentation: Apply targeted logging and debugging to validate hypotheses.
  • Regression Testing: Create a regression test before fixing to ensure future stability.
  • Cleanup and Post-Mortem: Document the fix and analyze the bug to prevent future occurrences.

Quick Start

Run the 'diagnose-bug' command followed by the name of the function or file that is causing the issue.

Frequently Asked Questions about diagnosing-bugs

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find the root cause of a hard-to-find bug?

To find the root cause of a hard-to-find bug, build a precise feedback loop and minimize the reproduction scenario to the bare minimum. Generate falsifiable hypotheses based on observed behavior and apply targeted instrumentation to validate them.

What is the best way to debug a performance regression in my code?

Debugging a performance regression requires constructing a reproducible test case and minimizing the scenario. Formulate hypotheses about the codebase behavior and use targeted logging to validate the root cause before applying a fix.

How do I minimize a bug reproduction scenario for diagnosis?

Minimizing a bug reproduction scenario involves shrinking the test case to the bare minimum that still reveals the issue. This structured approach isolates the exact conditions triggering the bug for clearer hypothesis generation.

Can I use this structured debugging approach without a deep understanding of my codebase?

No, diagnosing hard bugs through hypothesis testing and instrumentation requires a clear understanding of the codebase. You must be able to build reproducible test cases and interpret targeted logging to validate hypotheses.

How do I prevent fixed bugs from reoccurring in the future?

Prevent fixed bugs from reoccurring by creating a regression test before applying the fix. Conduct a post-mortem analysis to document the resolution and understand the original root cause for future stability.

Why does formulating falsifiable hypotheses help with bug diagnosis?

Formulating falsifiable hypotheses during bug diagnosis provides a structured method to validate observed behavior. By applying targeted instrumentation, you can systematically confirm or eliminate potential root causes.