# Prototype

> Build throwaway logic or UI prototypes to answer design questions fast.

- Skill: `redpanda-data/prototype` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 3 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add redpanda-data/prototype`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/redpanda-data/prototype/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: redpanda-data (https://skillmd.com/u/redpanda-data)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/redpanda-data/prototype

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# Prototype

Prototype = throwaway code answering one question.

## Pick branch

- Logic/state question -> [LOGIC.md](LOGIC.md): tiny terminal app, push state machine through hard cases.
- UI question -> [UI.md](UI.md): several variants on one route, switchable by URL/search param + floating controls.

If ambiguous and user absent: infer from code. Backend/module -> logic. Page/component -> UI. State assumption.

## Rules

1. Mark throwaway clearly. Keep near target code.
2. One command to run.
3. No persistence unless question needs it. Scratch DB/file only, clearly wipeable.
4. Skip polish: no tests, minimal errors, no abstractions.
5. Surface full relevant state after each action/switch.
6. When answered: delete or absorb into real code.

## Done

Capture answer + original question in commit msg, ADR, issue, or local notes. Prototype itself should not rot.