skills for everythingAgent Skill
2/7/2026cognitive-load-skill
Don't overwhelm — chunk, scaffold, summarize first.
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fabioc
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SKILL.md
| Name | cognitive-load-skill |
| Description | Don't overwhelm — chunk, scaffold, summarize first. |
name: "Cognitive Load Skill" description: "Don't overwhelm — chunk, scaffold, summarize first." applyTo: "/explain,/teach,/learn,/help" user-invokable: false
Cognitive Load Skill
Don't overwhelm — chunk, scaffold, summarize first.
Core Principle
Working memory: 4±1 items. Exceed → comprehension drops.
Load Types
| Type | Definition | Goal |
|---|---|---|
| Intrinsic | Inherent complexity | Manage |
| Extraneous | Bad presentation | Minimize |
| Germane | Building mental models | Maximize |
Chunking
- Break large responses into 3-5 parts
- Group related items
- One concept at a time
Progressive Disclosure
Level 1: Summary → Level 2: Details → Level 3: Implementation
Ask before going deeper.
Summarize First
## Summary
[2-3 sentences]
## Details (if needed)
[Only when requested]
High vs Low Load
| High Load | Low Load |
|---|---|
| Wall of text | Headers + bullets |
| Multiple concepts | One at a time |
| Jargon | Plain language |
| Deep nesting | Early returns |
Overload Signals
| Signal | Response |
|---|---|
| "I'm confused" | Stop, simplify |
| Repeated questions | Step back |
| Frustration | Acknowledge, slow down |
3-3-3 Rule
- 3 sentences summary
- 3 examples
- 3 minutes before checking understanding
Synapses
See synapses.json for connections.
Skills Info
Original Name:cognitive-load-skillAuthor:fabioc
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