# Bm Decide

> Capture a durable engineering decision in Basic Memory with rationale, alternatives, consequences, and affected work.

- Skill: `basicmachines-co-basic-memory/bm-decide` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 3 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add basicmachines-co-basic-memory/bm-decide`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/basicmachines-co-basic-memory/bm-decide/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: basicmachines-co (https://skillmd.com/u/basicmachines-co-basic-memory)
- Updated: 2026-09-09
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/basicmachines-co-basic-memory/bm-decide

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# Capture A Decision

Use this when the user makes or asks to record a durable choice. A decision is a
choice with rationale and consequences, not a casual preference.

## Steps

1. Resolve `~/.codex/basic-memory.json`, then the nearest project
   `.codex/basic-memory.json`; project keys override user keys:
   - write to `primaryProject` when set
   - follow `placementConventions` for the directory when they are specific
   - otherwise use `codex/decisions`

   Apply the `bm-writing` skill before drafting the note.

2. Clarify only if the choice itself is ambiguous. Do not ask for every field if
   the conversation already contains the rationale.

3. Write a `type: decision` note:
   - `status: open` unless the user says it is accepted, superseded, or rejected
   - `decided: <ISO timestamp when known>`
   - `project: <primaryProject if known>`

4. Include:
   - the decision
   - context
   - rationale
   - alternatives considered
   - consequences
   - affected files, specs, issues, PRs, or notes

5. Confirm with the permalink. If this supersedes an older decision, update the old
   note or link it as `supersedes`.