Read a file to review its contents, then make edits to it.
Read Then Edit
This skill combines reading a file first to understand its current state, then making targeted edits based on what you've learned.
When to use this skill
You need to understand a file's structure or current content before making changes
You want to review code/text before modifying it
You're making context-dependent edits that require knowing the full file
Steps
Read the file - Use /read <path> to view the complete file contents
Analyze - Review the structure, format, and content to understand what needs changing
Edit the file - Use /edit <path> with your modifications, using the context from the read step
Tips
The read step gives you the full context needed to make precise edits
Take note of indentation, formatting, and syntax when reviewing
Structure your edit commands with clear markers (like <<< and >>>) to indicate where changes should go
This two-step approach reduces errors compared to editing without reviewing first
1---2name: read-then-edit3description: read-then-edit4---5# read-then-edit67Read a file to review its contents, then make edits to it.89# Read Then Edit1011This skill combines reading a file first to understand its current state, then making targeted edits based on what you've learned.1213## When to use this skill14- You need to understand a file's structure or current content before making changes15- You want to review code/text before modifying it16- You're making context-dependent edits that require knowing the full file1718## Steps191. **Read the file** - Use `/read <path>` to view the complete file contents202. **Analyze** - Review the structure, format, and content to understand what needs changing213. **Edit the file** - Use `/edit <path>` with your modifications, using the context from the read step2223## Tips24- The read step gives you the full context needed to make precise edits25- Take note of indentation, formatting, and syntax when reviewing26- Structure your edit commands with clear markers (like `<<<` and `>>>`) to indicate where changes should go27- This two-step approach reduces errors compared to editing without reviewing first
Run npx skillmds@latest add claudiawong522/read-then-edit in your terminal (requires Node.js), paste this page's agent-chat prompt into Claude, Cursor, or any MCP-connected agent, or download the SKILL.md file and copy it into your agent's skills directory.
read-then-edit It is listed under Coding & Dev Tools on SkillMD.
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claudiawong522 (@claudiawong522) published this skill. Their other Agent Skills are listed on their SkillMD profile.
claudiawong522