# Researching

> Explores codebases and evaluates approaches before planning. Use when investigating a problem space, comparing alternatives, or gathering context for a plan.

- Skill: `haowjy/researching` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add haowjy/researching`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/haowjy/researching/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: haowjy (https://skillmd.com/u/haowjy)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/haowjy/researching

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# Research

Explore the codebase, research best practices, evaluate alternatives, and recommend the best solution with clear reasoning.

## Key Constraints

- **Read project instructions first** — `CLAUDE.md` or `AGENTS.md` at repo root, plus stack-specific files.
- **Search before suggesting** — check if something already exists before recommending new implementations.
- **Evaluate 2-3 approaches** — describe each, compare pros/cons specific to this codebase, and recommend one.
- **Justify with WHY** — every recommendation needs reasoning tied to the specific codebase, not generic advice.
- **Be specific** — include file paths, function names, line numbers. Vague findings aren't useful.

## Output

Produce a report with these sections:

- **Problem Statement**
- **Codebase Context** — existing patterns, utilities, integration points (with file paths)
- **Best Practices** — industry recommendations with sources
- **Alternative Approaches** — 2-3 approaches with description, pros, cons, codebase fit
- **Recommendation** — which approach and WHY it fits this codebase
- **Open Questions**