Can OpenSpec Explore write application code?

No, Explore mode is strictly for thinking and planning. It helps you investigate the codebase and create OpenSpec artifacts like proposals or designs, but it will not implement features or write application code.

How do I transition from exploring to implementing?

Once you have crystallized your ideas in Explore mode, you can exit and start a change using commands like /opsx:new or /opsx:ff to begin the actual implementation process.

When is the best time to use Explore mode?

It is best used when you have a vague idea, a complex problem to solve, or need to compare multiple technical options before committing to a specific path of action.

What kind of visualizations can I expect?

The skill uses ASCII diagrams liberally to represent system architectures, state machines, data flows, and dependency graphs directly within the conversation.

Does this skill understand my existing project documentation?

Yes, it has full context of the OpenSpec system and can read existing proposals, designs, and task lists to ensure discussions are grounded in your project's current status.

OpenSpec Explore Mode

Name: OpenSpec Explore Mode
Author: alexandervivas

byalexandervivas

0•

Productivity & Workflow

Activates a dedicated thinking partner mode for brainstorming ideas, investigating codebases, and clarifying requirements without implementing code.

OpenSpec Explore Mode is a specialized stance for Claude Code designed for the high-level discovery phase of software development. It functions as an interactive thinking partner that helps developers map out existing architectures, visualize complex data flows with ASCII diagrams, and compare technical trade-offs before a single line of implementation code is written. By integrating directly with OpenSpec artifacts like proposals and designs, it ensures that your conceptual exploration remains grounded in your project's actual state, allowing you to move from vague ideas to formal specifications with confidence.

Key Features

01Proactive requirement clarification and assumption challenging

02Dynamic ASCII diagram generation for visualizing systems and state machines

03Direct integration with OpenSpec artifacts like proposals, designs, and specs

04Trade-off analysis and option comparison for technical decision-making

05Deep-dive investigation of existing codebases and architectural patterns

060 GitHub stars

Use Cases

01Brainstorming the architecture of a new feature before starting implementation

02Navigating and mapping out unfamiliar or legacy parts of a codebase

03Refining project requirements and updating design documents based on new insights

What are Skills?·How to Install

Install with 🐟 Skill.Fish

npx skillfish add alexandervivas/expat-ledger-backend openspec-explore

For use in Claude.ai and ChatGPT

Download Skill