investigating-a-codebase

Search codebase files for files, functions, and patterns to verify design assumptions.

Updated May 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/TK-Evans01/tk-harness --skill investigating-a-codebase-tk-evans01
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: investigating-a-codebase
Source: https://github.com/TK-Evans01/tk-harness/tree/main/plugins/tk-research/skills/investigating-a-codebase
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/TK-Evans01/tk-harness --skill investigating-a-codebase-tk-evans01

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill ensures your planning and design decisions are based on the actual state of the codebase, preventing assumptions and promoting accurate understanding.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Verify Design Assumptions: Confirm the existence of code, patterns, and features before implementation.
  • Locate Code: Find specific files, functions, or components within the codebase.
  • Understand Architecture: Gain insights into component relationships and architecture.
  • Prevent Hallucination: Avoid incorrect assumptions about file paths and structure.
  • Use Case: Before starting a new feature, use this Skill to verify that all required components exist and understand how they interact.

Quick Start

Verify the existence of the 'auth.ts' file in the codebase.

Frequently Asked Questions about investigating-a-codebase

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I verify design assumptions before implementing a new feature?

You can verify design assumptions by searching the codebase for specific files, functions, and patterns. This confirms that required components exist and reveals how they interact before you start implementation.

What is the best way to locate specific functions within a software project?

The best way to locate specific functions is by performing a targeted code search across the codebase files. This pinpoints exact file paths and component locations to ground your planning in reality.

How does codebase investigation help understand software architecture?

Codebase investigation helps understand software architecture by searching for and matching patterns across files. This process maps component relationships and structural connections within the project.

Can I use code search to prevent hallucinated file paths during planning?

Yes, you can use code search to prevent hallucinated file paths by verifying the actual state of the codebase. Confirming the existence of files and patterns ensures your design decisions are accurate.

Why does my codebase investigation return incorrect architecture assumptions?

Codebase investigation returns incorrect architecture assumptions when you do not verify the actual state of the codebase. Relying on memory instead of searching for files and patterns leads to structural hallucinations.

Does design verification work without knowing the exact file names in the codebase?

Design verification works by searching for patterns and functions rather than requiring exact file names. You can locate code and understand component relationships through broader codebase searches.