# Lean Context

> Activate strict context-saving mode mid-conversation. Use when conversations are getting long, before starting large tasks, or when the user says /lean. Audits conversation state and creates a checkpoint summary.

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

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# Lean Context Mode

Context efficiency rules are already enforced globally via CLAUDE.md. This skill adds conversation-specific actions when things are getting long.

## Actions (do all of these immediately)

1. **Checkpoint summary**: Write a 2-3 sentence summary of everything accomplished so far and what remains. This creates a "save point" that survives compaction.

2. **Stale context audit**: Identify any large tool outputs earlier in the conversation that are no longer needed (old file reads, long bash outputs, superseded diffs). Note them — they'll be compressed first.

3. **Remaining work estimate**: List what's left to do. If multiple independent tasks remain, suggest parallel agent delegation to keep the main context lean.

4. **Strict mode reminder**: For the rest of this conversation:
   - Re-read nothing — reference earlier checkpoint summaries instead
   - Delegate ANY research to Explore agents
   - Keep all responses to 1-3 sentences unless showing code

## Output

Respond with:
- The checkpoint summary
- "Lean mode active" confirmation
- Any specific suggestions for the current task