# Reread Files Before Editing

> Ensure files are re-read before editing to avoid overwriting user changes. Use only when explicitly encouraged to by user.

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

---


# Re-read Files Before Editing

## Rule
Before editing any file, re-read it to ensure you are using the latest version.

## Scope
This is a one-time freshness check for the current operation. Do not assume previously read file contents are still valid if the user may have edited them.

## Rationale
The user may modify files outside your current context. Using stale content can overwrite those changes.

## Behavior
Before making an edit:
1. Fetch the latest version of the file.
2. Base your changes on that updated content.