yq

Parse and transform YAML data using yq in shell scripts.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/led8/.codex --skill yq-led8
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: yq
Source: https://github.com/led8/.codex/tree/main/skills/yq
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/led8/.codex --skill yq-led8

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

YAML data is verbose to read and modify in scripts; this skill enables fast parsing and manipulation with yq, reducing boilerplate and error-prone grep/awk pipelines.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Read and query values from YAML
  • Update, merge, and convert YAML between YAML and JSON
  • Work with Kubernetes manifests, Docker Compose files, and general configuration

Quick Start

Ask your AI to extract the value at .services.web.image from docker-compose.yaml using yq.

Frequently Asked Questions about yq

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I parse and extract values from YAML files in shell scripts?▼

You can parse YAML data and extract values in shell scripts using yq to query specific fields, replacing error-prone grep and awk pipelines with reliable dot-notation path access for fast reading.

What is the best way to update or merge Kubernetes manifests without destroying the original file?▼

Updating and merging Kubernetes manifests is best done with yq, which enforces safe, non-destructive in-place edits to modify your YAML configuration while preserving the original file structure and formatting.

Can I convert YAML to JSON for Kubernetes manifests and Docker Compose files?▼

Yes, you can convert YAML to JSON for Kubernetes manifests and Docker Compose files using yq, which provides consistent JSON output to integrate your configuration data with JSON-based processing tools.

Does yq support environment variable substitution when updating YAML configurations?▼

Yes, yq supports environment variable substitution when updating YAML configurations, allowing you to dynamically inject values into your shell scripts for Docker Compose or general configuration scenarios.

Why should I use a dedicated YAML processor instead of grep and awk for configuration parsing?▼

Using a dedicated YAML processor like yq avoids the boilerplate and parsing errors of grep and awk, correctly handling YAML's hierarchical structure and indentation for reliable data extraction and modification.