Using Superpowers
FreeEstablishes skill invocation protocols for AI agents.
Free · Opens the source repo
What Using Superpowers does
The Using Superpowers skill is designed to ensure that AI agents invoke relevant skills before engaging in any task or conversation. This skill acts as a foundational protocol, emphasizing the importance of skill invocation in various scenarios. By adhering to this skill, users are guided to invoke the necessary tools before proceeding with clarifying questions or exploring codebases, thereby streamlining the workflow and enhancing productivity.
The skill operates on a strict rule: if there is any chance that a skill might apply to the task at hand, it must be invoked. This non-negotiable approach helps eliminate rationalizations that can lead to inefficiencies. For instance, if a user thinks a question is simple or that they need more context first, the skill reminds them to check for applicable skills before taking any action. This discipline is particularly beneficial in complex projects where multiple skills may be relevant, ensuring that the right processes are followed in the correct order.
Using Superpowers is particularly useful for developers and designers who frequently interact with AI agents and need to maintain a structured approach to task management. By invoking this skill, users can ensure that they are leveraging the full capabilities of their AI tools, reducing the risk of oversight and enhancing the overall quality of their work. The skill also includes specific instructions for platform adaptation, ensuring that users can seamlessly integrate it into their existing workflows.
In summary, Using Superpowers serves as a critical framework for maximizing the efficiency and effectiveness of AI agents by enforcing a disciplined approach to skill invocation. It is an essential tool for anyone looking to optimize their interactions with AI in development and design contexts.
When to use it
Use this skill at the start of any task or conversation with an AI agent to establish skill invocation protocols.
When not to use it
Avoid using this skill if you are not engaging with an AI agent or if no skills are relevant to the current task.
What you can build with it
Starting a New Project
Invoke this skill at the beginning of a new project to ensure all relevant skills are utilized effectively.
Debugging Code
Use this skill before attempting to debug code to confirm the necessary debugging skills are invoked first.
Exploring a Codebase
Before exploring a codebase, invoke this skill to determine the best approach and relevant tools to use.
How to install Using Superpowers
View source1. Install with the skills CLI
npx skills add obra/superpowers/using-superpowers --agent claude-code2. Or install it manually
Download the skill folder and drop it into ~/.claude/skills/ for all projects, or .claude/skills/ to scope it to one repo. Restart Claude Code so it picks up the new skill.
Anthropic's agentic coding CLI, and the reference implementation of Agent Skills. Drop a skill folder into ~/.claude/skills and Claude Code loads it automatically whenever a task matches the skill's description. Claude Code docs
Inside SKILL.md
Written by obraIF A SKILL APPLIES TO YOUR TASK, YOU DO NOT HAVE A CHOICE. YOU MUST USE IT.
This is not negotiable. You cannot rationalize your way out of this. </EXTREMELY-IMPORTANT>
The Rule
Invoke relevant or requested skills BEFORE any response or action — including clarifying questions, exploring the codebase, or checking files. If it turns out wrong for the situation, you don't have to use it.
Before entering plan mode: if you haven't already brainstormed, invoke the brainstorming skill first.
Then announce "Using [skill] to [purpose]" and follow the skill exactly. If it has a checklist, create a todo per item.
Skill Priority
When multiple skills apply, process skills come first — they set the approach, then implementation skills (frontend-design, etc.) carry it out. Brainstorming and systematic-debugging are Superpowers' most common process skills, but the rule holds for any of them.
- "Let's build X" → superpowers:brainstorming first, then implementation skills.
- "Fix this bug" → superpowers:systematic-debugging first, then domain skills.
Red Flags
These thoughts mean STOP—you're rationalizing:
| Thought | Reality |
|---|---|
| "This is just a simple question" | Questions are tasks. Check for skills. |
| "I need more context first" | Skill check comes BEFORE clarifying questions. |
| "Let me explore the codebase first" | Skills tell you HOW to explore. Check first. |
| "I can check git/files quickly" | Files lack conversation context. Check for skills. |
| "Let me gather information first" | Skills tell you HOW to gather information. |
| "This doesn't need a formal skill" | If a skill exists, use it. |
| "I remember this skill" | Skills evolve. Read current version. |
| "This doesn't count as a task" | Action = task. Check for skills. |
| "The skill is overkill" | Simple things become complex. Use it. |
| "I'll just do this one thing first" | Check BEFORE doing anything. |
| "This feels productive" | Undisciplined action wastes time. Skills prevent this. |
| "I know what that means" | Knowing the concept ≠ using the skill. Invoke it. |
Platform Adaptation
If your harness appears here, read its reference file for special instructions:
- Codex:
references/codex-tools.md - Pi:
references/pi-tools.md - Antigravity:
references/antigravity-tools.md
User Instructions
User instructions (CLAUDE.md, AGENTS.md, GEMINI.md, etc, direct requests) take precedence over skills, which in turn override default behavior. Only skip skill workflows or instructions when your human partner has explicitly told you to.
Frequently asked questions about Using Superpowers
Similar skills
Skill Creator
Efficiently create and manage skills for Gemini CLI.
Agent Development
Create and manage autonomous agents for Claude Code.
Math Olympiad Solver
Solve and verify competition math problems effectively.
Microsoft Skill Creator
Create specialized skills for Microsoft technologies.
Doublecheck
A verification pipeline for AI-generated claims.
Skill Development for Claude Code
Create and enhance skills for Claude Code plugins.