handoff

Persist multi-session project state across agents using an external store.

Updated May 31, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/danseely/skills --skill handoff-danseely
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: handoff
Source: https://github.com/danseely/skills/tree/main/handoff
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/danseely/skills --skill handoff-danseely

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Durable project state for agent work that outlives a single session, keeping the goal, the next action, and the dead-end list intact across restarts.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • State machine over an external store (e.g., GitHub issue, repo docs) to anchor progress.
  • Append-only logs and drift checks for clear traceability and reliable handoffs.
  • Supports autonomous startup and multiple storage modes to suit different harnesses.

Quick Start

Symlink this skill folder into your agent's skills directory and start a session to initialize the storage ladder.

Frequently Asked Questions about handoff

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I persist project state across multiple agent sessions?

To persist project state across multiple agent sessions, you need a durable external store that coordinates checkpoints. This skill enforces a state machine and append-only logging to keep your goal, next action, and evidence intact across restarts.

When do I need a state machine for long-running agent tasks?

You need a state machine for long-running agent tasks when work spans multiple sessions and requires persistent progress tracking. It enforces structured phases like orient, work, checkpoint, done, and blocked to guide autonomous or human-guided operations.

How do I prevent state drift when resuming work from an external store?

To prevent state drift when resuming work from an external store, apply drift checks and startup smoke tests. This validates that the anchored goal and append-only logs remain consistent with the actual project state before continuing.

Can I use GitHub issues as an external store for agent checkpoints?

Yes, you can use GitHub issues as an external store for agent checkpoints. The system supports anchoring progress to external stores like GitHub issues or repo docs to maintain durable project state across different harnesses.

What is the best way to handle blocked states in multi-session workflows?

The best way to handle blocked states in multi-session workflows is through a structured state machine that explicitly logs the blockage. Append-only logs and structured checkpoints ensure the dead-end list and context survive session restarts.

How do I set up durable project state without external dependencies?

You can set up durable project state by symlinking the skill folder into your agent's skills directory and starting a session. This initializes the storage ladder, supporting multiple storage modes to suit different harnesses without requiring external dependencies.