# Beads

> Persistent task tracking with dependency graphs via bd CLI. Use for multi session work that must survive compaction.

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

---


# Beads

Graph-based task tracker that survives conversation compaction.

## When to Use

Use bd (not TodoWrite) when:
- Context needed across sessions or after compaction
- Tasks have blockers/dependencies

## Session Start

```bash
bd ready                              # Find unblocked tasks
bd show <id>                          # Get context
bd update <id> --status in_progress   # Start work
```

## Common Commands

```bash
bd create "Title" -p 1                # Create task (priority 0-4)
bd update <id> --notes "Progress"     # Add notes (survives compaction)
bd close <id> --reason "Done"         # Complete task
bd dep add <child> <parent>           # Add dependency
bd sync                               # Sync with git remote
```

## Notes Format

```
COMPLETED: Specific deliverables
IN PROGRESS: Current state + next step
BLOCKERS: What's preventing progress
```

---

Use `bd --help` or see [references/examples.md](references/examples.md) for all commands.