check-memory

name	check-memory
description	Explicitly check memory system before answering or exploring
disable-model-invocation	true

Check Memory First

When invoked with /check-memory <topic>, this skill forces a memory-first workflow.

Task

IMPORTANT: You MUST check memory BEFORE reading any files or running any code searches.

The user is asking about: $ARGUMENTS

Step-by-Step Workflow

0. Verify Memory Health

Before querying, confirm the memory system is operational:

memory.check_setup

If status is not "healthy", inform the user and suggest running claude-memory doctor for details.

1. Query Memory (REQUIRED FIRST STEP)

Run multiple memory queries to find existing knowledge:

memory.recall "$ARGUMENTS"

Also try specialized shortcuts:

• memory.decisions (if implementing a feature)
• memory.architecture (if working with frameworks)
• memory.conventions (if writing code)
• memory.conflicts (if encountering contradictions)

2. Analyze Results

Review what memory returns:

• If sufficient: Answer using recalled facts with citations
• If partial: Note what's known and what needs investigation
• If empty: Memory has no knowledge on this topic yet

3. Explore Code (ONLY IF NEEDED)

If memory doesn't have enough information:

• Use Read/Grep/Glob to explore the codebase
• Clearly distinguish between:
  • Recalled knowledge (from memory)
  • Discovered information (from code exploration)

4. Provide Complete Answer

Combine:

• Facts from memory (with fact IDs if relevant)
• New information from code exploration (if any)
• Clear indication of sources

Example Response Format

Based on memory:
- [Fact from memory with context]

From code exploration:
- [New findings from reading files]

Answer: [Complete response combining both sources]

Why This Matters

Memory contains distilled knowledge from previous sessions. Checking it first:

• Saves time (no need to re-explore known areas)
• Provides context (decisions, patterns, conventions)
• Avoids mistakes (previous lessons learned)
• Reduces token usage (recalled facts are concise)

Remember

ALWAYS start with memory queries. NEVER skip this step.