start-task

Claim a task, gather project context, and define acceptance criteria.

4|Updated Jan 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/josephneumann/claude-corps --skill start-task-josephneumann
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: start-task
Source: https://github.com/josephneumann/claude-corps/tree/main/skills/start-task
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/josephneumann/claude-corps --skill start-task-josephneumann

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill streamlines the process of starting a new task by ensuring it's properly claimed, context is gathered, and the task is appropriately sized before implementation begins.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Task Claiming: Immediately claims a task to prevent conflicts with other agents.
  • Context Gathering: Reads relevant project files (CLAUDE.md, README.md, etc.) to understand the project.
  • Task Sizing: Assesses if the task is appropriately sized for a single session and offers to break it down if too large.
  • Acceptance Criteria Definition: Works with the user to define clear, testable acceptance criteria.

Quick Start

Use the start-task skill to begin working on the task with ID 'MoneyPrinter-46j.1'.

Frequently Asked Questions about start-task

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I claim a task in an agentic development workflow to prevent conflicts?

Task claiming immediately locks a specified task ID to prevent other agents from working on it simultaneously. It validates task existence and handles handoff context to ensure conflict-free execution within an agentic development framework.

How do I gather project context before starting development on a new task?

Gathering project context involves reading relevant project files such as CLAUDE.md and README.md to understand the codebase. This ensures the agent has the necessary information before implementation begins.

What is the best way to define acceptance criteria for a development task?

Defining acceptance criteria works by collaborating with the user to establish clear, testable conditions for task completion. This happens after context gathering and task sizing to ensure criteria are grounded in project understanding.

Can I assess task scope and break down large tasks before starting implementation?

Task sizing assesses whether a task is appropriately scoped for a single session. If the task is too large, it offers to break it down into smaller, manageable pieces before implementation begins.

How does task handoff context work when claiming a task in an agent workflow?

Task handoff context is processed during task claiming to preserve information from previous work sessions. It validates task existence and checks dependencies to ensure seamless continuation within the agentic framework.

Why does my development task need dependency checks before implementation?

Dependency checks during task claiming ensure that all required prerequisites are met before work begins. This prevents execution conflicts and ensures efficient task progress within the agentic development setup.