datalad-status

Inspect file changes and dataset state in a DataLad repository.

1|Updated Feb 25, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/bcmcpher/my-skills --skill datalad-status
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: datalad-status
Source: https://github.com/bcmcpher/my-skills/tree/main/plugins/datalad-cli/skills/datalad-status
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/bcmcpher/my-skills --skill datalad-status

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

DataLad workflows often require a quick, read-only view of the repository state across dataset trees. This Skill provides an exact, non-destructive snapshot of file changes and dataset state.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read-only dataset inspection: report modified, untracked, added, and deleted files without altering data.
  • Contextual guidance: explain DataLad states and annex pointers to help decision-making.
  • Scope-aware: operate in the current directory or a parent directory containing a .datalad/ directory, with optional path scoping.

Quick Start

Run the skill in a DataLad dataset directory to view the current state without making any changes.

Frequently Asked Questions about datalad-status

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I check the status of a DataLad dataset without modifying files?▼

You can inspect DataLad dataset status by running a read-only snapshot in the current directory or a parent with a .datalad/ directory, which reports modified, untracked, added, and deleted files without altering data.

What is the best way to view untracked files in a DataLad repository?▼

Viewing untracked files in a DataLad repository requires a read-only status inspection scoped to the current directory or a parent with a .datalad/ directory, optionally accepting a set of specific paths to filter results.

Does DataLad status inspection work with annex pointers?▼

DataLad status inspection works with annex pointers by reading dataset state and presenting interpreted results that explain annex pointers and DataLad states to assist decision-making.

Can I scope dataset status checks to specific paths in DataLad?▼

You can scope dataset status checks to specific paths in DataLad by optionally providing a set of paths, while the inspection operates from the current directory or a parent containing a .datalad/ directory.

Do I need the datalad tool installed to inspect repository state?▼

Inspecting repository state requires the datalad tool to be installed, because the status inspection depends on datalad to read dataset status and present interpreted results without modification.