pigeonhole-argument

Generate pigeonhole-based existence proofs for n+1 items in n categories.

3|Updated Feb 9, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/0bserver07/bourbaki --skill pigeonhole-argument
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: pigeonhole-argument
Source: https://github.com/0bserver07/bourbaki/tree/main/src/skills/pigeonhole-argument
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/0bserver07/bourbaki --skill pigeonhole-argument

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Prove existence in mathematical problems by applying the pigeonhole principle: if n+1 items are placed into n holes, some hole contains at least two items.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Formalization: identifies items (pigeons) and categories (holes) and constructs a mapping from items to categories.
  • Use cases: prove duplicates in attribute sets (e.g., hair counts), mutual relationships in groups, or divisibility properties via modular reasoning; adaptable to varying n.
  • Lean-based formalization path: supports machine-checked proofs and verification when needed.

Quick Start

Provide a problem statement with more items than categories and I will generate a pigeonhole-based existence proof.

Frequently Asked Questions about pigeonhole-argument

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I prove existence using the pigeonhole principle in combinatorics?▼

The pigeonhole principle proves existence by placing n+1 items into n categories, which guarantees a collision. This skill identifies your items and categories, then constructs a formal mapping to verify that at least two items must share a category.

Can I generate a Lean formalization for a pigeonhole principle proof?▼

Yes, this skill provides a Lean-friendly formalization path for pigeonhole arguments. It translates combinatorial counting and mapping strategies into machine-checked proof logic, ensuring your existence proof is verifiable in the Lean prover.

What types of mathematical problems can I solve with pigeonhole arguments?▼

You can solve problems like finding duplicates in attribute sets, proving mutual relationships in groups, or establishing divisibility properties via modular reasoning. The approach adapts to various n and k settings where items exceed available categories.

What is the best way to structure a pigeonhole proof for varying n and k settings?▼

The best way is to specify a clear mapping strategy from items to categories and apply combinatorial counting. This skill adapts to varying n and k settings by identifying items as pigeons and categories as holes to guarantee a collision.

Do I need prior formalization experience to use this for mathematical proofs?▼

No prior formalization experience is strictly required to generate the logical argument, but leveraging the Lean-based formalization path for machine-checked verification works best if you have basic familiarity with the Lean prover and combinatorial counting.