| name | zoom-out |
| description | Use this skill when > Request a broader architectural perspective when navigating unfamiliar code sections. Maps all relevant modules, identifies caller relationships and dependencies, and uses domain-specific vocabulary. Use when encountering unfamiliar code or needing to understand how a component integrates with the larger system. |
| allowed-tools | Read Grep Glob |
| compatibility | Works across all codebases. Most useful when CONTEXT.md domain vocabulary is available. Pairs with improve-codebase-architecture for deeper analysis and codebase-search for targeted navigation.
|
| metadata | {"tags":"architecture, navigation, context, modules, codebase-understanding, orientation","platforms":"Claude, ChatGPT, Gemini, Codex","version":"1.0","source":"mattpocock/skills"} |
Zoom Out
Get a higher-level architectural perspective on unfamiliar code sections.
When to use this skill
- Navigating unfamiliar code and needing to understand how it connects to the larger system
- Before making changes to understand the blast radius
- When you need a module map before diving into implementation
When not to use this skill
- Finding specific symbols or patterns → use
codebase-search
- Architectural improvement opportunities → use
improve-codebase-architecture
- Debugging a specific failure → use
debugging
What zoom-out produces
A structural map showing:
- All relevant modules in the area of interest
- Caller relationships (what calls what)
- Key dependencies (what depends on what)
- Domain vocabulary from CONTEXT.md applied to module names
How to use
When you encounter unfamiliar code, ask for a zoom-out before diving in:
"Zoom out and give me a broader view of how [module/component] fits into the system."
The response will map the relevant modules using the project's domain glossary, not internal implementation names.
Output format
[Module A] → calls → [Module B], [Module C]
[Module B] ← called by → [Module A], [Module D]
Key seams:
- [Interface X] separates [Domain Concept 1] from [Domain Concept 2]
- [Interface Y] is where [Domain Concept 3] behavior can be swapped
Domain terms in use here:
- "Order" = [what it means in this context]
- "Customer" = [what it means in this context]
Note on invocation
This skill sets disable-model-invocation: true — it is a directive framework that instructs the agent how to respond, not an independent processing unit. Invoke it as a behavioral directive when exploring code.
Instructions
- Identify the task trigger and expected output.
- Follow the workflow steps in this skill from top to bottom.
- Validate outputs before moving to the next step.
- Capture blockers and fallback path if any step fails.
Examples
- Example: Apply this skill to a small scope first, then scale to full scope after validation passes.
Best practices
- Keep outputs deterministic and auditable.
- Prefer small reversible changes over broad risky edits.
- Record assumptions explicitly.
References
- Project standards:
.agent-skills/skill-standardization/SKILL.md
- Validator script:
.agent-skills/skill-standardization/scripts/validate_skill.sh
