Serena File Processing

Serena File Processing Skill

This skill defines the authoritative rules for using Serena tools (view_file, replace_file_content, grep_search, etc.) and interactions with other tools in Antigravity.

Core Rules

1. Terminal Execution

• ❌ NEVER use mcp_serena_execute_shell_command.
• ✅ ALWAYS use run_command for terminal operations in Antigravity.

Workflow Best Practices

2. Code Navigation

• Symbolic First: Use view_file_outline to understand file structure before reading content.
• Search Smart: Use grep_search to find usages. Constraint searches to relevant paths.
• Jumping: Use view_code_item to inspect specific functions/classes without reading the whole file.

3. Code Editing

• Pattern Matching: When using replace_file_content or multi_replace_file_content, ensure TargetContent is unique.
• Context: Use view_file around the target area first to ensure you have the exact string for replacement.

4. Memory Management

• Limit Output: When reading large files, read in chunks or use view_child_nodes.
• Close Context: You don't need to explicitly "close" files, but don't re-read files unnecessarily.

Integration with Other Skills

• Layering: Use this skill as the foundational layer for file operations.
• Specifics: Higher-level skills (like bliksund-pr-reviewer) define what to look for; this skill defines how to look for it reliably.

Troubleshooting

5. Connection Issues

If you encounter errors connecting to the Serena MCP server or tools are unavailable:

1. Check Process Status: Ask the user to verify if the Serena process has started.
2. Check Workspace Config: Ask the user to confirm if the Serena configuration has been initiated for the current workspace.