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iterative-retrieval

Iteratively search repositories with Glob, Grep, and SemanticSearch to surface relevant files.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
Search Tags:#context#search#coding#glob#grep#semantic-search#iterative-retrieval
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/overthestream/agent-dotfile --skill iterative-retrieval-overthestream
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: iterative-retrieval
Source: https://github.com/overthestream/agent-dotfile/tree/main/general-agentic-utils/skills/iterative-retrieval
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/overthestream/agent-dotfile --skill iterative-retrieval-overthestream

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Progressive context gathering to surface the most relevant files before sub-agent calls, enabling efficient debugging, feature exploration, and bug impact analysis.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Iterative search loop: DISPATCH, EVALUATE, REFINE, LOOP with up to 3 cycles to converge on relevant files.
  • Context preparation: Build focused context from source files, docs, and patterns before task execution.
  • Use Case: When a bug is seen, start with broad search, evaluate relevance, refine keywords, and loop until the top results are found.

Quick Start

Initiate the iterative retrieval process by performing a DISPATCH to collect candidate files.

Frequently Asked Questions about iterative-retrieval

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find relevant files for debugging when my initial search results are insufficient?▼

Iterative file search runs a loop of up to three cycles, evaluating and refining keywords to progressively surface the most relevant files. It aggregates context from source files and docs until top candidates are found.

What is the best way to gather repository context before executing a sub-agent task?▼

Progressive context gathering iteratively searches the repository to build focused context from source files and patterns. It returns a prioritized list of candidate files for inspection before sub-agent execution.

Can I use glob and grep for semantic search during feature exploration?▼

Yes, iterative retrieval requires access to file content via Glob, Grep, and SemanticSearch. These tools dispatch broad searches, evaluate relevance, and refine queries to discover relevant patterns.

Does iterative retrieval work for bug impact analysis across a large codebase?▼

Yes, iterative retrieval applies across bug fixes, feature exploration, and bug impact analysis. It converges on relevant files by dispatching searches, evaluating results, and refining keywords through loops.

What are the limitations of the iterative search loop for locating files?▼

The iterative search loop is limited to a maximum of three cycles to converge on relevant files. If the correct context is not found within three refine and evaluate loops, it returns the current top candidates.

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