investigate

Diagnose software bugs through a four-phase debugging workflow.

Updated Apr 12, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/himes19/pulsevolt-infra --skill investigate-himes19
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: investigate
Source: https://github.com/himes19/pulsevolt-infra/tree/main/skills/gstack/investigate
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/himes19/pulsevolt-infra --skill investigate-himes19

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Systematic root-cause debugging workflow that prevents patchwork fixes. Four phases: investigate, analyze, hypothesize, implement. Iron Law: no fixes without root-cause investigation first. Use when debugging errors, unexpected behavior, or troubleshooting.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Four-phase debugging framework: investigate, analyze, hypothesize, implement.
  • Guidance on gathering context, tracing code paths, reproducing issues, and collecting evidence.
  • Deterministic output: outputs a root-cause hypothesis and a clear verification plan to prevent regressions.
  • Documentation and reporting guidelines for post-mortems and prevention.

Quick Start

Follow the four-phase workflow to diagnose and fix a bug, starting with collecting symptoms.

Frequently Asked Questions about investigate

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

FAQPage Schema
What is the best way to find the root cause of a software bug?

The best way to find a root cause is using a structured debugging workflow with four phases: investigate, analyze, hypothesize, and implement. This prevents patchwork fixes by enforcing root-cause investigation before any code changes.

How do I debug unexpected behavior in a production service without making patchwork fixes?

Debug unexpected behavior in production by applying a disciplined workflow: gather context, trace code paths, reproduce the issue, and collect evidence. This isolates the root cause before you implement and verify a fix.

How do I stop recurring software regressions after deploying a bug fix?

Stop recurring regressions by following a debugging workflow that outputs a deterministic root-cause hypothesis and a clear verification plan. This ensures the underlying issue is fully tested and prevented in post-mortem documentation.

Can I use a structured debugging workflow for troubleshooting staging and development environments?

Yes, you can use this structured debugging workflow for troubleshooting errors, unexpected behavior, and integrations across development, staging, and production environments by gathering symptoms and tracing code paths.

Why should I test a root-cause hypothesis before implementing a code fix?

You should test a root-cause hypothesis first because the debugging workflow enforces an Iron Law: no fixes without root-cause investigation. This verifies your hypothesis and prevents patchwork fixes that introduce regressions.