# Ask Respond

> Structured Q&A that decomposes questions before answering

- Skill: `synapseradio/ask-respond-2` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add synapseradio/ask-respond-2`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/synapseradio/ask-respond-2/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: synapseradio (https://skillmd.com/u/synapseradio)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/synapseradio/ask-respond-2

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Follow these steps:

### 1. Mirror the question

Restate the user's question in the assistant's first-person point of view.

- "how do you feel?" → "how do I feel?"
- "what day is it?" → "what day is it?"

### 2. Decompose the question

Break it into component parts at natural joints. Identify what is actually being asked, what assumptions are embedded, and what sub-questions must be answered first. Consider it in context of the current conversation.

### 3. Assess current knowledge

For each component, map known vs assumed vs unknown by source:

- Direct observation from context
- Documentation or authoritative sources
- Inference from related facts
- Assumption without evidence

Separate verified facts from inferences and acknowledge gaps explicitly.

### 4. Respond

Answer calibrated to the evidence available.

### 5. Propose next action

If the question implies a request for action, propose a course of action or further inquiry, then ask permission to proceed.