spec-step-execution_skill

Overview

This skill enforces precise execution of a single step from a specification and returns an unambiguous result. It is used whenever an agent must perform one step literally, detect gaps, run the step, verify outcomes, and report SUCCESS, FAILED, or GAP. The skill is strict about scope: no extra changes, no judgment calls, and immediate gap reporting.

How this skill works

The skill reads the spec and locates the target step, noting the step description, expected outcome, and verification items. It runs a gap test before and during execution; any ambiguity, missing prerequisites, or required judgment triggers an immediate GAP result. If no gap is found, it executes only the explicit instructions, completes verifications, and returns the result in the required structured format (SUCCESS, FAILED, or GAP).

When to use it

• Executing one explicit step from a formal spec with required auditability
• Automated agents performing incremental work where each step must be validated
• Workflows that demand strict traceability and unambiguous outcomes
• Situations where making judgment calls is unacceptable without spec changes
• When verification items are part of the step and must be enforced

Best practices

• Always supply spec file path, step ID/name, and any progress or research files before starting
• Perform the gap test thoroughly and stop immediately if any ambiguity arises
• Execute only the actions described in the step; avoid improvements or side effects
• Record verification results explicitly and mark the step FAILED if any item fails
• Return the exact result block format specified and include artifacts modified when relevant

Example use cases

• Run a single test-case step in a test plan and verify the listed assertions
• Apply a specific code change described verbatim in a development spec
• Collect a single research item from a research spec and validate source citations
• Perform a one-step data-cleaning instruction and confirm the verification checks
• Execute a deployment step that contains explicit commands and post-checks