tools-only PolicyEngine GitHub Agent Skill
For Users 👥
The PolicyEngine GitHub agent is an automated bot that can be invoked on GitHub issues and pull requests using @policyengine mentions. It helps with code reviews, bug fixes, and implementing features across PolicyEngine repositories.
For Contributors 💻
Critical: Avoiding Doom Loops
NEVER use '@policyengine' or '@policyengine-auto' in bot responses. These mentions trigger the bot and create infinite loops where the bot repeatedly responds to itself.
Why This Matters
When the bot posts a comment containing @policyengine, GitHub notifies the bot account, which triggers another invocation. This creates a chain reaction of bot responses that can generate dozens or hundreds of comments before being stopped. See PR #22 for a real example of this issue.
Safe Alternatives
Instead of mentioning the bot directly:
❌ Don't do this:
- "Thanks @policyengine for the suggestion!"
- "I've addressed @policyengine's feedback"
- "cc @policyengine-auto"
✅ Do this instead:
- "I've implemented the suggested changes"
- "The feedback has been addressed"
- "Updated based on the review comments"
- Simply refer to "the bot" or "the agent" without the @ mention
Bot Invocation
The bot can only be invoked by members of the PolicyEngine/core-developers team. Non-members will receive a permission error.
Response Style
When the bot responds to issues or PRs:
- Keep responses concise and actionable
- Focus on the technical task at hand
- Avoid unnecessary pleasantries or acknowledgments
- Never include @ mentions of the bot usernames