what-context-needed
$
npx mdskill add github/awesome-copilot/what-context-neededDetermine necessary source code files by prompting the agent for required context before answering.
- Prevents incomplete or inaccurate responses by proactively identifying missing code context.
- Requires no external tools; it is purely a structured prompting and analysis mechanism.
- Generates a structured markdown list categorizing required, helpful, and already seen files.
- Outputs a clear, actionable markdown format detailing file paths and justifications.
SKILL.md
.github/skills/what-context-neededView on GitHub ↗
---
name: what-context-needed
description: 'Ask Copilot what files it needs to see before answering a question'
---
# What Context Do You Need?
Before answering my question, tell me what files you need to see.
## My Question
{{question}}
## Instructions
1. Based on my question, list the files you would need to examine
2. Explain why each file is relevant
3. Note any files you've already seen in this conversation
4. Identify what you're uncertain about
## Output Format
```markdown
## Files I Need
### Must See (required for accurate answer)
- `path/to/file.ts` — [why needed]
### Should See (helpful for complete answer)
- `path/to/file.ts` — [why helpful]
### Already Have
- `path/to/file.ts` — [from earlier in conversation]
### Uncertainties
- [What I'm not sure about without seeing the code]
```
After I provide these files, I'll ask my question again.
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