README review
Quickly orient yourself in a new project by reviewing the README and suggesting what to do next.
Process
Step 1: Find and read the README
- Look for README files in the project root (README.md, README, README.txt, readme.md)
- Read the README content thoroughly
- If no README exists, note this and scan the project structure instead
Step 2: Provide a summary
Write a concise summary covering:
- Purpose: What does this project do? (1-2 sentences)
- Tech stack: Key languages, frameworks, and tools
- Status: Active development, maintenance mode, or unclear
- Setup: How to get started (if documented)
Keep the summary brief and focused on essentials.
Step 3: Recommend a next step
Based on the project context and README content, suggest ONE recommended next action. Consider:
For new/unfamiliar projects:
- If requirements are unclear: suggest
/intentto clarify goals - If there's a backlog or issues list: suggest reviewing it
- If setup instructions exist: suggest running the project locally
For projects with clear direction:
- If there's a documented contribution guide: point to it
- If tests exist: suggest running them to verify the setup
- If there's a clear next feature or bug: suggest starting there
For projects lacking documentation:
- Suggest creating or improving the README
- Suggest using
/requirementsto document what exists
Output format
## Project summary
[Brief summary of what the project does]
**Tech stack:** [languages, frameworks, tools]
**Status:** [development stage or activity level]
## Recommended next step
[One clear recommendation with rationale]
To proceed: [specific command or skill to invoke, if applicable]
Tips
- Keep it short; this is orientation, not deep analysis
- Be honest if the README is sparse or unclear
- Tailor recommendations to what the user might actually want to do
- Reference specific skills (e.g.,
/intent,/requirements,/orchestrate) when they fit