search-first

Evaluate existing tools and libraries before coding with a researcher-agent workflow.

86|21|Updated Feb 9, 2026

Search Tags:#research #search #patterns #reuse #decision-matrix #engineering-workflow

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/Jamkris/everything-gemini-code --skill search-first-jamkris

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: search-first
Source: https://github.com/Jamkris/everything-gemini-code/tree/main/skills/search-first
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Jamkris/everything-gemini-code --skill search-first-jamkris

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

The Research-First workflow helps teams prevent wasted effort by requiring a search for existing tools, libraries, and patterns before writing new code, reducing duplication and accelerating delivery.

Core Features & Use Cases

Structured research workflow that guides NEED ANALYSIS, PARALLEL SEARCH, EVALUATE, DECIDE, and IMPLEMENT steps.
Decision guidance with a matrix that suggests Adopt, Extend, or Build based on candidates.
Practical guidance for feature discovery, dependency decisions, and new integrations across projects.

Quick Start

Identify a feature to implement and follow the step-by-step research workflow to locate ready-made solutions before coding.

Frequently Asked Questions about search-first

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I research existing libraries and patterns before coding a new feature?▼

Researching existing libraries before coding involves analyzing needs, searching for candidates in parallel, evaluating them against criteria, and deciding to adopt, extend, or build. This structured workflow prevents reinventing the wheel.

What is the best way to decide whether to adopt, extend, or build a software dependency?▼

The best way to decide whether to adopt, extend, or build a dependency is using a decision matrix that evaluates existing candidates against your feature needs. This matrix guides your engineering workflow by scoring each option.

How do I avoid reinventing the wheel when starting new integrations?▼

To avoid reinventing the wheel during new integrations, follow a research-first workflow that locates ready-made solutions and existing patterns before writing any new code. This reduces duplication and accelerates delivery.

When should I require a search for existing tools before writing new code?▼

You should require a search for existing tools before writing new code during feature discovery, dependency decisions, and new integrations where multiple solutions exist. This prevents wasted engineering effort on duplicated functionality.

Does a research-first workflow slow down feature delivery?▼

A research-first workflow accelerates feature delivery by preventing wasted effort and reducing duplication. By locating ready-made solutions and patterns before coding, teams avoid reinventing the wheel and ship faster.

What steps are involved in evaluating existing libraries for a software project?▼

Evaluating existing libraries involves a structured research workflow of need analysis, parallel search, evaluation against scoring criteria, and a final decision. A researcher-agent applies these criteria to return a recommended action.