# Rule Of 5 Universal

> Universal Rule of 5 Review

- Skill: `charly-vibes/rule-of-5-universal` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 4 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add charly-vibes/rule-of-5-universal`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/charly-vibes/rule-of-5-universal/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: charly-vibes (https://skillmd.com/u/charly-vibes)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/charly-vibes/rule-of-5-universal

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# Universal Rule of 5 Review

Review any intellectual artifact (code, plans, research, issues, specs, documentation) using Steve Yegge's 5-stage iterative editorial refinement process until convergence.

## Core Philosophy
"Breadth-first exploration, then editorial passes." Don't aim for perfection in early stages. Each stage builds on insights from previous stages.

## Procedure
1.  **Stage 1: DRAFT** - Evaluate overall shape and sound approach. Focus on architecture, organization, and scope.
2.  **Stage 2: CORRECTNESS** - Identify errors, bugs, or logical flaws. Check for convergence.
3.  **Stage 3: CLARITY** - Ensure comprehensibility for the intended audience. Check for convergence.
4.  **Stage 4: EDGE CASES** - Handle boundary conditions and unusual scenarios. Check for convergence.
5.  **Stage 5: EXCELLENCE** - Final polish for production quality and pride.
6.  **Final Report** - Synthesize findings and provide a final verdict.

## Rules
- **Progressive Build:** Each stage must build on previous findings.
- **Specificity:** Reference exact locations (file:line, section, paragraph).
- **Actionability:** Suggest specific solutions, don't just identify problems.
- **Validation:** Confirm issues exist; do not flag "potential" issues without evidence.
- **Early Stop:** Stop if convergence criteria are met before Stage 5.

## References
- **Templates:** Use `references/templates.md` for the exact output format of each stage and the final report.
- **Criteria:** Refer to `references/criteria.md` for convergence and escalation rules.
- **Examples:** (Optional) See `references/examples.md` for domain-specific review examples.