reverse-spec

Analyze repository code and external sources to generate a spec/ directory.

Updated Feb 20, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/sergseven/agent-dev --skill reverse-spec-sergseven
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: reverse-spec
Source: https://github.com/sergseven/agent-dev/tree/main/suites/reverse-spec/skills/reverse-spec
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/sergseven/agent-dev --skill reverse-spec-sergseven

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Onboards an existing repository into the Specification-Driven Development workflow by analyzing code and external knowledge sources in bounded-context chunks, then generating a full spec/ directory that is precise enough to reimplement the system from scratch; resumable after interruption.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Automates repository onboarding into the SDD workflow by chunking analysis and generating spec directories.
  • Supports external research integration and stateful progress for long-running migrations.
  • Produces a complete spec/ directory (features, API, architecture) suitable for reimplementation.

Quick Start

Run the reverse-spec skill on a repository to generate its spec/ directory and enable resumable progress.

Frequently Asked Questions about reverse-spec

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I generate specifications from an existing codebase for onboarding?▼

Repository onboarding into specification-driven development works by analyzing code and external knowledge sources in bounded-context chunks. It generates a full spec/ directory covering features, API, and architecture suitable for reimplementation.

What is specification-driven development for auditing a legacy repository?▼

Specification-driven development for auditing extracts formal specs by analyzing code and external knowledge sources. It generates a comprehensive spec/ directory mapping features, API, and architecture to ensure complete system understanding during handover or auditing.

How do I resume codebase analysis after an interruption?▼

You can resume codebase analysis after an interruption because the workflow persists progress to a state file at spec/.reverse-spec-state.json. This stateful pipeline enables resumable multi-phase execution without losing prior code analysis data.

Do I need a root SKILL.md file to start reverse engineering code into specs?▼

Yes, you need a root SKILL.md file with a defined name and description to start reverse engineering code into specs. The workflow leverages this file, alongside optional sub-skills and prompts, to guide the codebase discovery process.

Can I integrate external research sources during codebase spec generation?▼

Yes, you can integrate external research sources during codebase spec generation. The workflow supports external research integration to enrich the code analysis and produce a more accurate and complete spec/ directory for reimplementation.

What are the limitations of automating repository onboarding into a spec directory?▼

Limitations of automating repository onboarding include the strict requirement for a root SKILL.md file and potential interruptions during long-running migrations. Complex codebases require extensive multi-phase execution, though progress remains resumable via a state file.