trace-callpath

Trace runtime call paths through a codebase into file:line breakpoint guides.

Updated Dec 18, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/l0lxl0lw/dotfiles --skill trace-callpath-l0lxl0lw
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: trace-callpath
Source: https://github.com/l0lxl0lw/dotfiles/tree/main/ai/shared/skills/codebase/trace-callpath
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/l0lxl0lw/dotfiles --skill trace-callpath-l0lxl0lw

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve? When debugging a feature, developers often cannot tell which functions actually execute, which SQL statement writes a row, or which outbound HTTP request carries the data. This Skill produces a verified, execution-ordered map from the entry point down to the literal SQL statement and outbound METHOD /path?query, with accurate relative file:line references ready to paste into a debugger. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Verified call trees: Enumerates every caller at every chain level, re-derives line numbers from the working tree, and resolves dynamic dispatch to the concrete wired implementation. - Wire-level leaves: Quotes the actual SQL statement shape with binds and the literal outbound HTTP request with query params, envelope decoding, and auth source. - Structured output template: Produces entry-point tables, aligned call trees rendered via scripts/render_tree.py, outbound API and SQL tables, fork notes, and 5-8 suggested breakpoints. - Use Case: Ask "where do I set breakpoints to watch the checkout flow charge a card" and receive an ordered tree from the POST route through the payment gateway to the exact Stripe API call and the INSERT statement that records it. ## Quick Start Ask the assistant to trace the call path for a specific endpoint, cron job, or CLI command and list the breakpoints needed to step through it.

Frequently Asked Questions about trace-callpath

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I find the call path for an API endpoint in my codebase?

Trace from the router definition down through each function call, grepping every function name in the chain for callers. The trace ends at the literal SQL statement or outbound HTTP request, with file:line references at each step for debugger breakpoints.

How do I find which SQL query writes a specific database column?

Grep for INSERT, UPDATE, and SELECT literals in the source, then trace callers of the query executor back to the entry point. Quote the full statement shape with its columns, WHERE clause, and placeholder binds rather than just naming the table.

Does call path tracing work across different languages and frameworks?

Yes, the approach is language-agnostic. It anchors on three discovery points — request routers, SQL literals, and outbound HTTP clients — using ripgrep patterns that cover common stacks like Express, Rails, Django, Go, and Spring.

Why are my breakpoint line numbers wrong after a merge?

Line numbers go stale the moment anyone merges or edits the file. Re-derive them from the working tree by grepping symbol definitions before every trace, and confirm the current git branch has not changed mid-trace.

When should I not use runtime call path tracing?

Skip it for uncommitted working-tree changes, branch-vs-main comparisons, or conceptual how-does-X-work questions with no debugging intent. Those are better served by diff explanation or a direct conceptual answer.