problem-analysis

Identify root causes of technical issues through structured hypothesis testing and evidence gathering.

4|Updated Jan 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/alphaleonis/decaf-claude-config --skill problem-analysis-alphaleonis
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: problem-analysis
Source: https://github.com/alphaleonis/decaf-claude-config/tree/main/decaf/skills/problem-analysis
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/alphaleonis/decaf-claude-config --skill problem-analysis-alphaleonis

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you systematically identify the fundamental reasons behind a problem, preventing wasted effort on treating symptoms rather than the actual cause.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured Investigation: Guides you through a phased approach to problem diagnosis.
  • Hypothesis Generation: Encourages exploring multiple potential causes to avoid bias.
  • Evidence-Based Conclusion: Focuses on gathering concrete evidence to support or refute hypotheses.
  • Use Case: When a user reports intermittent errors, use this skill to methodically uncover the underlying issue before attempting any code changes.

Quick Start

Use the problem-analysis skill to investigate why users are reporting session expirations immediately after login on mobile devices.

Frequently Asked Questions about problem-analysis

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find the root cause of intermittent software bugs instead of just fixing symptoms?

Root cause analysis for intermittent software bugs requires a structured, multi-phase investigation process. You can systematically generate hypotheses, gather concrete evidence, and assess confidence in the diagnosis to identify the fundamental issue before modifying any code.

What is the best way to debug complex technical issues without introducing bias?

Debugging complex technical issues without bias involves exploring multiple potential causes through structured hypothesis generation. This evidence-based approach prevents premature conclusions by requiring concrete proof to support or refute each suspected root cause.

What information do I need to provide for effective troubleshooting and diagnosis?

Effective troubleshooting and diagnosis requires a clear problem statement, reproducible triggers, and expected outcomes. Providing these elements allows the investigation process to systematically evaluate evidence and accurately identify the root cause.

How do I investigate why users are experiencing unexpected session expirations immediately after login?

Investigating unexpected session expirations immediately after login involves a phased problem diagnosis. By generating hypotheses and gathering concrete evidence based on the specific reproducible triggers, you can uncover the underlying issue causing the session failures.

When should I use a structured investigation process for problem solving?

Use a structured investigation process for problem solving when facing complex or intermittent software problems. If users report errors where the fundamental reason is unclear, this methodical approach prevents wasted effort on treating symptoms rather than the actual cause.