codebase-analysis_skill

Overview

This skill provides immediate, scripted codebase analysis to build a clear understanding of repository structure, architecture, and design decisions. It is designed to run automatically via a Python orchestration script and produces structured output that feeds downstream tasks like refactoring or problem analysis. The focus is fast orientation and reliable context for follow-up workflows.

How this skill works

On activation the skill immediately runs the provided Python script instead of performing manual exploration. The script (in .claude/skills/scripts) executes a multi-step analysis workflow that inspects files, dependency graphs, key patterns, and architectural boundaries and emits summarized findings. The orchestration enforces stepwise progression so downstream skills can consume consistent interim results.

When to use it

• When you need a fast, repeatable orientation of a new or unfamiliar repository
• Before running targeted analysis, refactor, or bug-investigation skills
• When documenting architecture, drift, or technical debt for stakeholders
• Onboarding new engineers who need a high-level map of the codebase

Best practices

• Invoke the scripted workflow immediately—do not explore manually first
• Run the analysis from the repository root so file paths and contexts resolve correctly
• Provide the script with correct step and total-step parameters when integrating into pipelines
• Use the produced summaries as inputs for specialized skills (refactor, tests, issue triage) rather than re-parsing the repo

Example use cases

• Automated orientation for a contributor joining a Claude customization repo
• Generating an architecture summary before planning a refactor or feature
• Feeding codebase insights into automated issue prioritization or technical debt tracking
• Baseline scans in CI to detect unexpected structural drift over time