Does it support visual diagrams?

Yes, the skill uses ASCII diagrams extensively to help visualize state machines, data flows, and system architectures during the conversation.

How does this skill interact with the OpenSpec CLI?

It can list active changes, read existing proposals or design documents, and offer to update them based on the insights gained during your exploration.

How do I switch back to coding after exploring?

Once insights are crystallized, you can exit explore mode and start a change using standard OpenSpec commands like /opsx:new or /opsx:ff.

Can OpenSpec Explore write code for me?

No, Explore mode is strictly for thinking, investigating, and planning. It intentionally avoids implementation to focus on clarifying requirements and architecture.

When should I use the Explore skill?

Use it when you have a vague idea, need to investigate a complex codebase section, or want to compare technical options before starting a task.

OpenSpec Explore Mode

Name: OpenSpec Explore Mode
Author: ValorVie

byValorVie

•

Productivity & Workflow

Enables a specialized discovery mode for brainstorming ideas, mapping architectures, and clarifying requirements without writing code.

OpenSpec Explore transforms Claude Code into a dedicated thinking partner for the early stages of software development. It enables a non-prescriptive, curious stance where the AI investigates the codebase, visualizes complex architectures through ASCII diagrams, and challenges technical assumptions without jumping to implementation. By integrating with the OpenSpec CLI, it allows developers to bridge the gap between abstract brainstorming and formal documentation, ensuring that requirements, design decisions, and potential risks are thoroughly explored and captured before coding begins.

Key Features

01Strategic problem reframing and assumption challenging

02Liberal use of ASCII diagrams for visualizing systems and data flows

03Interactive codebase investigation and architectural mapping

04Deep integration with OpenSpec CLI for managing proposals and designs

05Comparative analysis of technical options with trade-off tables

063 GitHub stars

Use Cases

01Brainstorming a new feature's architecture before starting implementation

02Investigating a complex architectural 'tangle' in an existing codebase

03Comparing different technical paths or library options based on project constraints

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add valorvie/custom-skills openspec-explore

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT

Download Skill