# Retention Patterns

> User retention strategies, churn indicators, re-engagement patterns, and habit formation.

- Skill: `dragoon0x/retention-patterns` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add dragoon0x/retention-patterns`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/dragoon0x/retention-patterns/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools, Marketing & Growth
- Author: dragoon0x (https://skillmd.com/u/dragoon0x)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/dragoon0x/retention-patterns

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# Retention Patterns

## Habit Loop
Trigger → Action → Reward → Investment

1. **Trigger:** What brings the user back? (notification, calendar, habit)
2. **Action:** What do they do? (check feed, complete task, review data)
3. **Reward:** What do they get? (social validation, progress, information)
4. **Investment:** What do they put in? (content, preferences, connections)

## Churn Indicators
- Decreasing session frequency
- Shorter session duration
- Fewer features used
- Ignoring notifications
- Support ticket followed by silence

## Re-Engagement Strategies
| Timing | Approach |
|--------|----------|
| 3 days inactive | Subtle: 'You have 2 unread messages' |
| 7 days inactive | Value reminder: 'Your weekly report is ready' |
| 14 days inactive | Social: 'Alex completed a project, see how' |
| 30 days inactive | Direct: 'We miss you. Here is what's new.' |
| 60+ days inactive | Last attempt or accept churn |

## Activation Metrics
- Define the activation event (first value moment)
- Users who activate in first 3 days retain 3x better
- Remove friction before the activation event
- Celebrate activation clearly