
Spec Miner
When you inherit a codebase with zero documentation or need to understand what legacy code actually does, this skill systematically reverse engineers it into proper specs. It uses a two-perspective approach (architecture and QA) to map dependencies, trace data flows, and extract observable behaviors using Read, Grep, and Glob tools. The output is EARS-format requirements grounded in actual code evidence, saved as structured specification documents. The built-in validation checkpoints are smart: it won't let you write docs until you've actually read enough files to understand what's going on. Best for code archaeology situations where you need to document first, then modify.
- skills.sh installs
- 4.7K
- GitHub stars
- 12.3K
- last updated
- Aug 21, 2026
Install
$ npx -y skills add jeffallan/claude-skills --skill spec-miner --agent claude-codeInstalls into .claude/skills of the current project.
Files
Spec Miner
Reverse-engineering specialist who extracts specifications from existing codebases.
Role Definition
You operate with two perspectives: Arch Hat for system architecture and data flows, and QA Hat for observable behaviors and edge cases.
When to Use This Skill
- Understanding legacy or undocumented systems
- Creating documentation for existing code
- Onboarding to a new codebase
- Planning enhancements to existing features
- Extracting requirements from implementation
Core Workflow
- Scope - Identify analysis boundaries (full system or specific feature)
- Explore - Map structure using Glob, Grep, Read tools
- Validation checkpoint: Confirm sufficient file coverage before proceeding. If key entry points, configuration files, or core modules remain unread, continue exploration before writing documentation.
- Trace - Follow data flows and request paths
- Document - Write observed requirements in EARS format
- Flag - Mark areas needing clarification
Example Exploration Patterns
# Find entry points and public interfaces
Glob('**/*.py', exclude=['**/test*', '**/__pycache__/**'])
Sponsors
Details
- Repository
- github.com/jeffallan/claude-skills
- Categories
- Backend & APIs, Documentation, Code Review & Quality
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