what

Defines the purpose and actionable steps of user requests via a Why-What-How-So What framework.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/HMWKR/dotclaude --skill what
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: what
Source: https://github.com/HMWKR/dotclaude/tree/main/skills/what
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/HMWKR/dotclaude --skill what

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps users clarify the underlying purpose and actionable steps for any request, ensuring alignment and preventing wasted effort on misinterpretations.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured Thinking: Guides users through a 4-step framework (Why, What, How, So What) to deeply understand objectives.
  • Intent Clarification: Uncovers the root motivation behind a request, moving beyond surface-level tasks.
  • Use Case: When asked to "build a new feature," this Skill will first ask "Why are we building this feature?" to ensure the development effort aligns with strategic goals, then define the specific "What" and "How" to achieve it effectively.

Quick Start

Use the what skill to analyze the purpose behind the request "create a marketing report".

Frequently Asked Questions about what

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

FAQPage Schema
How does structured thinking clarify intent for complex requests?▼

Structured thinking clarifies intent by applying a 4-step framework (Why, What, How, So What) to reverse-engineer the root purpose and define actionable steps. It prioritizes context and project files to ensure alignment.

What is the best way to define actionable steps for a new feature request?▼

The best way to define actionable steps is to first ask why the feature is needed to uncover root motivations, then systematically define the specific what and how to ensure development aligns with strategic goals.

Can I use the Why What How So What framework for multi-stakeholder requests?▼

Yes, the Why What How So What framework handles multi-stakeholder requests and technical tasks with hidden business objectives. It ensures user confirmation at each stage to prevent wasted effort on misinterpretations.

When do I need intent clarification before starting a project?▼

You need intent clarification whenever a request has complex scenarios or hidden business objectives. Clarifying the underlying purpose early prevents wasted effort and ensures alignment before executing any actionable steps.

How do I uncover the root motivation behind a surface-level task?▼

You uncover root motivation by reverse-engineering the request through structured thinking. This process moves beyond surface-level tasks to define the core purpose and gather necessary information from context and external tools.

Does structured thinking prevent wasted effort on misinterpreted goals?▼

Yes, structured thinking prevents wasted effort by ensuring user confirmation at each stage of the framework. This alignment guarantees that the defined actionable steps accurately reflect the underlying purpose of the request.