search-first

Search package managers, skill servers, and code repositories before writing new code.

1|Updated Mar 10, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/aleonsa/claude-config --skill search-first-aleonsa
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: search-first
Source: https://github.com/aleonsa/claude-config/tree/main/claude/skills/search-first
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/aleonsa/claude-config --skill search-first-aleonsa

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill prevents redundant work by ensuring that existing solutions, libraries, and patterns are identified and leveraged before custom code is written.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Systematic Research Workflow: Guides the process of searching for existing tools, libraries, and code patterns.
  • Informed Decision Making: Provides a framework for evaluating and choosing between adopting, extending, or building custom solutions.
  • Use Case: When tasked with adding a new functionality, like a date picker to a web application, this Skill ensures you first search for existing JavaScript libraries before attempting to build one from scratch.

Quick Start

Use the search-first skill to research existing npm packages for implementing a markdown table parser.

Frequently Asked Questions about search-first

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find existing libraries before writing new code?

To find existing libraries before writing new code, use a research workflow that searches package managers, internal skill servers, and code repositories to identify existing tools and patterns. This prevents redundant development by leveraging available solutions.

What is a research-before-coding workflow for software development?

A research-before-coding workflow is a systematic process to identify existing tools, libraries, and patterns before custom code is written. It facilitates parallel searching across repositories to guide informed decisions on adopting, extending, or building solutions.

How do I decide whether to adopt, extend, or build a custom solution?

To decide whether to adopt, extend, or build a custom solution, evaluate existing tools and libraries found during your research workflow against specific criteria. This framework guides decision-making based on the suitability of available code patterns.

Can I search npm packages and internal code repositories in parallel?

Yes, you can search npm packages and internal code repositories in parallel. The research workflow facilitates parallel searching across package managers and internal skill servers to identify existing solutions before custom code is written.

What's the best way to prevent redundant work when adding new application functionality?

The best way to prevent redundant work when adding new application functionality is to search for existing libraries and patterns first. Implementing a research-before-coding workflow ensures existing solutions are identified and leveraged before building from scratch.