# Va First Principles Thinking

> Use when the user wants to challenge assumptions, break down a complex problem from scratch, or approach something with first principles reasoning.

- Skill: `roche-k/va-first-principles-thinking` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 4 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add roche-k/va-first-principles-thinking`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/roche-k/va-first-principles-thinking/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: roche-k (https://skillmd.com/u/roche-k)
- Updated: 2026-09-21
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/roche-k/va-first-principles-thinking

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# First Principles Thinking

Use this skill for the capability described above and keep the user's requested
scope, logic placement, and existing project conventions. Read the relevant
sections of [the domain guide](references/guide.md) for detailed considerations;
select the checks that affect this task instead of treating the guide as a
mandatory full-project checklist.

## Workflow

1. Define the question, evidence requirements, scope, and relevant time period.
2. Collect and evaluate sources or supplied data with traceable provenance and appropriate methods.
3. Synthesize findings with citations, uncertainty, conflicting evidence, and the decision they inform.

## Applying the guidance

Use only tools and services actually available in the session. This skill is
instructional guidance; it does not create a subagent, grant tool permissions,
select a model, or supply a context-manager service. Related specialists are
optional; this skill works independently.

Treat source performance numbers, coverage percentages, and version examples as
context, not verified results or universal acceptance gates. Preserve the user's
test and artifact rules. Report only observed outcomes and disclose checks that
could not run. Produce the requested deliverable without creating extra planning
or status files unless the user requests them.