| name | eigenquestion-context |
| description | Gather context through high-leverage eigenquestions when information is missing or ambiguous.
ACTIVATE THIS SKILL when: (1) context is missing or unclear, (2) user asks something requiring unstated assumptions,
(3) working within a brain without recent context, (4) starting new work or strategic decisions,
(5) multiple valid approaches exist without clear direction, (6) user says "clarify", "help me think through",
or "what should I consider". This skill asks ONE discriminating question at a time to unlock maximum downstream clarity.
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Eigenquestion Context Gathering
Gather missing context through high-leverage questions that maximize information gain. One question at a time.
Core Concept
An Eigenquestion is the single question that, when answered, also answers the largest number of subsequent questions.
Instead of asking many clarifying questions, identify the ONE question with the most discriminating power—the question that establishes a fundamental principle and eliminates the need to debate every downstream decision.
When to Activate
Use this skill when:
- Context is missing or ambiguous
- User request requires assumptions you shouldn't make
- Starting work on a brain without recent context
- Making strategic decisions with multiple valid paths
- You're tempted to ask 3+ clarifying questions (find the eigenquestion instead)
Do NOT use when:
- Context is already sufficient in brain CLAUDE.md
- Question is operational, not strategic
- User has explicitly provided the needed context
The Eigenquestion Protocol
Step 1: Identify the Uncertainty Space
Before asking, map what you don't know:
What decisions depend on this context?
- Decision A: [what it affects]
- Decision B: [what it affects]
- Decision C: [what it affects]
Which single piece of information would resolve the most decisions?
