embark-research

name	embark-research
context	fork
agent	Explore
argument-hint	query
description	Research and understand unfamiliar codebases using semantic search with `embark search`

You need to gather all context for task $ARGUMENTS thoroughly.

When to Use

• Understanding unfamiliar codebases or locating specific functionality
• Finding implementations, definitions, or usage patterns
• Identifying code related to specific features or concepts
• Before making changes to understand the context and impact

Tools Available

embark search

Semantic code search that finds code by meaning, not just exact keywords.

embark search "<descriptive query>" [path]
embark search -p <path> "<query>"  # <path> must be relative to the project root

Query Tips:

• Be descriptive: "function that validates user email addresses" > "email"
• Include context: "error handling middleware for HTTP requests with logging"
• Specify what you're looking for: "React component that renders a modal dialog"

Research Workflow

1. Start broad: Use embark search with general terms to understand the landscape
2. Narrow down: Add path filters (-p) once you identify relevant directories
3. Read the code: Once you find relevant files, read them to understand the details

Example Session

# Find authentication-related code
embark search "user authentication login"

# Narrow to specific directory
embark search -p src/auth "JWT token validation"