iterative-retrieval Skill

Source

• Creator: microsoft
• Repository: microsoft/frontier-agentic-devops-rvas
• Skill file: .squad/templates/skills/iterative-retrieval/SKILL.md

What it does

Max-3-cycle protocol for agent sub-tasks with WHY context and coordinator validation. Use when spawning sub-agents to complete scoped work.

Skill instructions

Iterative Retrieval Skill Squad agents frequently spawn sub-agents to complete scoped work. Without structure, these handoffs become vague, cycles multiply, and outputs land without being checked. The Iterative Retrieval Pattern caps cycles at 3, mandates WHY context in every spawn, and requires the coordinator to validate agent output before closing an issue. --- Spawn Prompt Template Every agent spawn must include the following four sections. Copy and fill in the template: Task {What you need done — concrete and bounded} WHY this matters {The motivation and context. What system or user goal does this serve? What breaks if skipped?} Success criteria {How you will know the output is correct. Be explicit — list acceptance criteria, not vibes.} Example: - [ ] File X exists and contains Y - [ ] No regressions in existing tests - [ ] PR is open targeting main with description matching the issue Escalation path {What the agent should do if uncertain or stuck. "Stop and ask me" is valid.} Ex