general-tasks

Guides step-by-step execution of open-ended tasks involving files, shell, or web.

27.6k|2.7k|Updated Aug 6, 2024
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/mastra-ai/mastra --skill general-tasks
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: general-tasks
Source: https://github.com/mastra-ai/mastra/tree/main/templates/template-claw-assistant/workspace/skills/general-tasks
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/mastra-ai/mastra --skill general-tasks

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Open-ended tasks that touch files, the shell, or the web often lack a consistent process, leading to skipped verification, unclear outcomes, and untracked changes. This Skill provides a default structured workflow so every task is planned, executed, and summarized the same way.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured Task Process: Restate the goal, list concrete steps before acting, execute them one at a time, and note the outcome of each step.
  • Read-Before-Write Discipline: Prefers reading existing files before creating new ones to avoid duplication and conflicts.
  • Completion Summary: Produces a final report covering what changed, what was verified, and what remains open.
  • Use Case: When asked to clean up a project directory or investigate a configuration issue, the agent follows this process to plan its steps, verify each action, and deliver a clear summary of changes.

Quick Start

Handle this open-ended task using the general-tasks process: inspect the workspace, plan your steps, and summarize what you changed and verified.

Frequently Asked Questions about general-tasks

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I handle open-ended tasks with an AI agent?

Use a structured process: restate the goal in one sentence, list concrete steps before acting, execute them one at a time while noting outcomes, and finish with a summary of changes, verifications, and open items.

What is the default process for file and shell tasks in an agent workspace?

The general-tasks skill defines the default: plan steps explicitly, execute them sequentially, prefer reading existing files before writing new ones, and summarize what changed and what was verified at the end.

Does this task process require any scripts or dependencies?

No. The skill is a pure instruction-based workflow defined entirely in SKILL.md. It has no scripts, references, or assets directories and no external package dependencies.

When should I not use a general task process?

Avoid it for highly specialized tasks that already have a dedicated skill or deterministic script, such as domain-specific data pipelines. The general process is a fallback for open-ended work without a more specific procedure.

Why does the process require reading files before writing new ones?

Reading existing files first prevents duplicate or conflicting content and ensures new files fit the current project structure. It is a core step in the skill's workflow before any writes occur.