search-first

Search npm, PyPI, MCP servers, and GitHub for existing tools and libraries.

Updated Mar 2, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/unju-ai/ecc --skill search-first-unju-ai
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: search-first
Source: https://github.com/unju-ai/ecc/tree/main/skills/search-first
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/unju-ai/ecc --skill search-first-unju-ai

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you avoid reinventing the wheel by systematically searching for existing tools, libraries, and code patterns before writing custom code.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Pre-implementation Research: Ensures you leverage existing solutions for common problems.
  • Dependency Identification: Finds suitable npm packages, PyPI libraries, MCP servers, or existing Claude Code skills.
  • Informed Decision Making: Provides a framework for evaluating and choosing the best external solution.
  • Use Case: When tasked with adding a new API client to a project, this skill will first search for existing, well-maintained libraries before you start writing your own.

Quick Start

Use the search-first skill to find an npm package for checking dead links in markdown files.

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 custom code?

To find existing libraries before writing custom code, use a research-first workflow that searches npm, PyPI, MCP servers, and GitHub to identify well-maintained packages. This prevents reinventing the wheel by evaluating candidates for adoption or extension.

What is the best way to evaluate external dependencies for a new feature?

The best way to evaluate external dependencies is to systematize research by invoking a researcher agent to find solutions across package managers. This provides a framework to decide whether to adopt, extend, or build custom solutions based on evaluated candidates.

Can I search for MCP servers and existing tools before implementing a solution?

Yes, you can search for MCP servers and existing tools by systematizing the pre-implementation research workflow. A researcher agent queries registries and GitHub to find suitable libraries, ensuring you leverage existing patterns before writing custom code.

When do I need to research existing code patterns instead of building from scratch?

You need to research existing code patterns when adding new API clients or common features to avoid reinventing the wheel. Searching npm and PyPI first ensures you evaluate whether to adopt, extend, or build a custom solution based on found candidates.

Does dependency management research work for finding dead link checkers?

Yes, dependency management research works for finding dead link checkers by searching for existing npm packages. The research-first workflow evaluates available libraries, ensuring you select a well-maintained external solution rather than writing custom validation logic.