orphan-reference

Identify reference files not linked from SKILL.md frontmatter.

33|Updated Jan 5, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/lvlup-sw/exarchos --skill orphan-reference
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: orphan-reference
Source: https://github.com/lvlup-sw/exarchos/tree/main/skills/test-fixtures/orphan-reference
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/lvlup-sw/exarchos --skill orphan-reference

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Detects reference files that exist in a skill's references directory but are not referenced by the SKILL.md entry point, helping maintain documentation hygiene and reduce clutter in test fixtures.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Orphan Detection: Scans the references/ directory and identifies files not linked from SKILL.md frontmatter or body.
  • Repository Hygiene: Useful in testing and CI checks to flag stale or accidental reference files before packaging or publishing.
  • Use Case: Run as part of a test suite to ensure only referenced documentation is shipped with a skill and to avoid confusing developers with unused files.

Quick Start

Run the skill scanner to list any unreferenced files in the references directory.

Frequently Asked Questions about orphan-reference

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find unused reference files in my repository?

To find unused reference files, scan the references directory and compare its contents against the files linked in the SKILL.md frontmatter. This identifies orphaned documents that exist on disk but are not actually referenced by the skill entry point.

What is an orphan reference file in a skill directory?

An orphan reference file is a document placed inside a skill's references directory that is not linked or mentioned within the SKILL.md entry point. Detecting these unreferenced files helps maintain documentation hygiene and reduce clutter in test fixtures.

Can I use orphan reference detection for CI hygiene checks?

Yes, orphan reference detection is useful in CI hygiene checks. Running the scanner flags stale or accidental reference files before packaging or publishing, ensuring only actively referenced documentation is shipped with the skill.

How do I scan a SKILL.md frontmatter to detect unreferenced documentation?

Scanning SKILL.md frontmatter involves reading the entry point metadata to detect referenced files, then comparing that list against the actual files in the references directory. The scanner outputs a list of orphaned reference documents not found in the frontmatter.

What's the best way to clean up stale reference files during testing?

The best way to clean up stale reference files during testing is to run an orphan detection scanner as part of your test suite. It compares the references directory against SKILL.md links, outputting unreferenced files to remove before packaging.

Why does my skill include reference files that are not linked in SKILL.md?

Reference files not linked in SKILL.md are often accidental additions or stale documents left after updates. Running an orphan reference scanner identifies these unreferenced files so you can remove them and avoid confusing developers with unused documentation.