howto-qmd

Search markdown collections using BM25, vector, and hybrid re-ranking.

13|Updated Jan 18, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/pbdeuchler/llm-plugins --skill howto-qmd
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: howto-qmd
Source: https://github.com/pbdeuchler/llm-plugins/tree/main/plugins/tooling/skills/howto-qmd
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/pbdeuchler/llm-plugins --skill howto-qmd

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

qmd helps you search markdown knowledge bases, documentation, and notes using a combined BM25 keyword search, vector semantic search, and LLM-powered hybrid ranking to surface relevant context.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Local search engine for markdown documents
  • BM25 keyword search, vector semantic search, and hybrid re-ranking
  • Works across collections of markdown files for documentation, notes, and knowledge bases
  • Use case: building context for a task from scattered documentation

Quick Start

Ask qmd to perform a search across your indexed markdown collection.

Frequently Asked Questions about howto-qmd

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I search across local markdown documents using semantic and keyword matching?

You can search local markdown documents by configuring qmd collections and running the embed command before executing vsearch or query to surface relevant context using BM25 and vector semantic search.

What's the best way to build context from scattered markdown documentation for a task?

Building context from scattered documentation is achieved by applying qmd's hybrid re-ranking across local collections of markdown files, combining BM25 keyword search and vector semantic search to answer questions or gather background material.

Can I output markdown search results in formats other than human-readable text?

Markdown search results can be output in multiple formats, allowing you to export retrieved context as JSON, CSV, or standard MD formats directly from your qmd queries.

Do I need to run an embedding step before performing a vector search on my markdown knowledge base?

Yes, you must run the embed command before executing vsearch or query operations on your markdown knowledge base to ensure the vector semantic search and hybrid re-ranking function correctly.

How does hybrid re-ranking improve markdown knowledge base search over basic keyword matching?

Hybrid re-ranking improves markdown knowledge base search by combining BM25 keyword search with vector semantic search, using an LLM-powered approach to surface more relevant context than basic keyword matching alone.

What are the limitations of using qmd for searching markdown knowledge bases?

Limitations of searching markdown knowledge bases with qmd include the requirement to configure collections beforehand and the necessity of running the embed step prior to any vsearch or query execution.