research-codebase

Maps modules, traces data flows, and documents existing codebase architecture.

Updated Aug 23, 2026

Search Tags:#architecture #code analysis #documentation #research #codebase #module mapping

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/swtch1/dotfiles --skill research-codebase-swtch1

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: research-codebase
Source: https://github.com/swtch1/dotfiles/tree/main/.claude/skills/research-codebase
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/swtch1/dotfiles --skill research-codebase-swtch1

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps users understand the inner workings of a codebase by mapping modules, tracing data flows, and explaining architecture without suggesting improvements.

Core Features & Use Cases

Codebase Exploration: Investigate unfamiliar parts of a codebase.
Architecture Mapping: Understand how different modules and services interact.
Documentation Generation: Create documentation of existing code structure.
Use Case: A new developer joins a project and needs to understand a specific service. They can use this Skill to get a clear explanation of its components, data flow, and responsibilities.

Quick Start

Use the research codebase skill to explain the authentication module.

Frequently Asked Questions about research-codebase

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I document an unfamiliar codebase architecture?▼

To document an unfamiliar codebase architecture, you map modules, trace data flows, and explain interactions strictly based on existing code without suggesting improvements.

What is the best way to map modules and trace data flows in existing code?▼

Mapping modules and tracing data flows requires analyzing the existing codebase structure to explain how different services interact, ensuring you document only what currently exists.

Can I use this to analyze code and suggest improvements?▼

No, this approach strictly adheres to documenting what exists without suggesting improvements or performing root cause analysis on the codebase.

How do I generate documentation for a specific service's components?▼

You generate documentation by investigating the specific service to get a clear explanation of its components, data flow, and responsibilities within the codebase.

When do I need codebase exploration and architecture mapping?▼

You need codebase exploration and architecture mapping when joining a project with unfamiliar code and needing to understand how different modules and services interact.

Does code analysis for architecture mapping include root cause analysis?▼

No, code analysis for architecture mapping focuses exclusively on explaining the codebase structure and data flows, strictly omitting root cause analysis or improvement suggestions.