investigate

Diagnose software issue root causes through a structured four-phase debugging workflow.

1|Updated Mar 26, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/apeejay-education/cadencesprout --skill investigate-apeejay-education
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: investigate
Source: https://github.com/apeejay-education/cadencesprout/tree/main/.agents/skills/gstack-investigate
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/apeejay-education/cadencesprout --skill investigate-apeejay-education

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Systematic root-cause debugging through a four-phase workflow to identify and fix the real problem.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured four-phase approach: investigate, analyze, hypothesize, implement.
  • Proactive safety checks and boundary controls to prevent unsafe operations.
  • Auditable reasoning and documentation of hypotheses, tests, and outcomes.

Quick Start

Follow the four-phase process to diagnose and resolve a bug by collecting symptoms, analyzing data, forming hypotheses, and implementing a fix.

Frequently Asked Questions about investigate

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

FAQPage Schema
What is root-cause debugging and how does a structured approach help?

Root-cause debugging identifies the actual source of software issues rather than just treating symptoms. A structured approach enforces a repeatable, auditable workflow that guides evidence collection, hypothesis testing, and safe fix implementation.

How do I debug software issues systematically using a four-phase method?

Debug software issues by following the investigate, analyze, hypothesize, and implement phases. You investigate to collect symptoms, analyze data, form hypotheses, and implement fixes with safety checks and boundary control.

Does this debugging workflow enforce safety checks during fix implementation?

Yes, the debugging workflow applies proactive safety checks and boundary controls during the implementation phase. This prevents unsafe operations while you test hypotheses and apply fixes to resolve the root cause.

What is the best way to document debugging decisions for future analysis?

The best way to document debugging decisions is through an auditable workflow that records hypotheses, tests, and outcomes. This structured documentation ensures future learning and repeatable root-cause analysis.

When should I use a structured debugging process instead of ad-hoc troubleshooting?

Use a structured debugging process when you need to diagnose complex root causes and ensure safe fixes. It provides auditable reasoning and boundary control, making it ideal for critical software issues requiring documented decisions.

Can I use this method to diagnose software issues without writing code changes?

Yes, you can use the investigate and analyze phases to collect symptoms and form hypotheses without immediately writing code. The workflow supports diagnosing root causes and documenting decisions before any implementation begins.