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name: using-expert-mode description: Use when starting any conversation - establishes how to find and use skills, requiring Skill tool invocation before ANY response including clarifying questions compatibility: opencode license: MIT

Using Expert Mode

Overview

This skill establishes the core protocol for finding and using expert workflows. It ensures that the agent always operates with the highest level of discipline and consistency.

When to Use

Invoke this skill at the start of every session. It is mandatory and non-negotiable.

<EXTREMELY-IMPORTANT> If you think there is even a 1% chance a skill might apply to what you are doing, you ABSOLUTELY MUST invoke the skill.

IF A SKILL APPLIES TO YOUR TASK, YOU DO NOT HAVE A CHOICE. YOU MUST USE IT.

This is not negotiable. This is not optional. You cannot rationalize your way out of this. </EXTREMELY-IMPORTANT>

How to Access Skills

In OpenCode: Use the native skill tool. When you invoke a skill, its content is loaded and presented to you—follow it directly. Never use the read tool on skill files.

Using Skills

The Rule

Invoke relevant skills BEFORE any response or action. The flow is simple: Check for skills -> Invoke Skill -> Follow Skill.

Red Flags

These thoughts mean STOP—you're rationalizing: "This is just a simple question", "I need more context first", "Let me explore the codebase first", "I can check git/files quickly", "Let me gather information first", "This doesn't need a formal skill", "I remember this skill", "This doesn't count as a task", "The skill is overkill", "I'll just do this one thing first", "This feels productive", "I know what that means".

Skill Priority

Process skills first (brainstorming, debugging), then implementation skills.

Skill Types

Rigid (TDD, debugging): Follow exactly. Flexible (patterns): Adapt to context.

User Instructions

Instructions say WHAT, not HOW. "Add X" or "Fix Y" doesn't mean skip workflows.