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whywhy

Parse an input question into a configurable why-chain with pattern analysis.

3|1|Updated Apr 4, 2026
Search Tags:#analysis#retrospective#problem-solving#decision-making#root-cause#5-whys
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/epologee/leclause-skills --skill whywhy
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: whywhy
Source: https://github.com/epologee/leclause-skills/tree/main/packages/whywhy/skills/whywhy
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/epologee/leclause-skills --skill whywhy

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Clarifies vague decisions, surfaces root causes, and sharpens goals by iteratively asking and answering "why" to reveal hidden assumptions and actionable directions.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Iterative Root-Cause Drilling: Run a configurable N-layer "why" chain (default 7, clamped 3–20) where each layer answers the previous layer's why concisely.
  • Pattern Analysis and Reframing: Detect convergence, breakpoints, circles, and depth to summarize what stands out and propose a reframed goal and next steps.
  • Practical Scenarios: Use in post-mortems, product decision debates, PR triage, personal coaching, or when a goal feels unfocused and needs a clearer direction.

Quick Start

Ask the skill a question or prefix with a number to set layers, for example: /whywhy 5 Why is this feature underperforming?

Frequently Asked Questions about whywhy

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I perform a root-cause analysis for a vague product decision?▼

Root-cause analysis for a vague product decision uses iterative why drilling to surface hidden assumptions. By repeatedly asking and answering why, you clarify the decision and reveal actionable directions.

What is the 5 whys technique and how does it uncover underlying causes?▼

The 5 whys technique uncovers underlying causes by iteratively asking and answering why to drill into an initial question. This process reveals hidden assumptions, detects convergence or breakpoints, and reframes goals.

Can I configure the number of why layers for a retrospective?▼

Yes, you can configure the why layers for a retrospective by prefixing your input with a number. The layer count clamps between 3 and 20, defaulting to 7, to produce a concise N-step why chain.

Does root-cause drilling work for PR triage and post-mortems?▼

Root-cause drilling works for PR triage and post-mortems by applying iterative why chains to technical contexts. It parses the input, produces a concise why chain, analyzes patterns, and proposes concrete next steps.

What's the best way to reframe an unfocused goal during problem-solving?▼

The best way to reframe an unfocused goal during problem-solving is to run an iterative why chain to detect depth and circles. Pattern analysis summarizes what stands out, proposing a reframed direction with concrete next steps.

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