investigation

Diagnose root causes by connecting logs, traces, docs, and code clues.

105|13|Updated Mar 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Hmbown/Wizards-of-the-Ghosts --skill investigation-hmbown
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: investigation
Source: https://github.com/Hmbown/Wizards-of-the-Ghosts/tree/main/generated/hermes/investigation-and-preparation/investigation
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Hmbown/Wizards-of-the-Ghosts --skill investigation-hmbown

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Connect scattered clues from logs, traces, docs, and code to build a clear, defensible causal explanation of why a problem happened.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured investigation workflow: follow evidence through a system to reveal underlying mechanisms and root causes.
  • Deliverables-driven results: provides a ranked set of causes with evidence, the most likely root cause, and a next-step validation plan.
  • Guardrails & clarity: keeps evidence and inference separate and guides users away from spurious correlations.
  • Canonical references & prereqs: assumes no runtime dependencies beyond Hermes agent and standard tooling.

Quick Start

Analyze the current session data to identify the most likely root cause and the supporting evidence.

Frequently Asked Questions about investigation

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find the root cause of a failure by analyzing logs and traces?

You can find the root cause of failures by connecting scattered clues from logs and traces into a defensible causal explanation. The workflow requires rigorous hypothesis testing to reveal underlying mechanisms.

What is the best way to debug anomalous behavior and avoid spurious correlations?

The best way to debug anomalous behavior is using a structured investigation that keeps evidence and inference separate. This approach guides you away from spurious correlations to build a clear causal explanation.

How do I connect scattered code clues to diagnose a complex regression?

To diagnose a complex regression, you connect scattered code clues by following evidence through the system. This structured workflow separates raw evidence from inference to reveal the true root cause.

Can I investigate production issues without installing additional runtime dependencies?

Yes, you can investigate production issues without additional runtime dependencies. The investigation requires no dependencies beyond the standard agent tooling and your existing session data.

What deliverables should I expect from a structured root-cause investigation?

A structured root-cause investigation delivers a ranked set of causes with supporting evidence, the most likely root cause, and a next-step validation plan to confirm the findings.

Why does my system investigation fail to pinpoint the true underlying mechanism?

Your system investigation fails when evidence and inference are mixed, leading to spurious correlations. Separating factual clues from hypotheses ensures a defensible causal explanation of the underlying mechanism.