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AskUserQuestion protocol for confidence gates. Use when uncertain or before destructive actions.

CodeTonight-SA By CodeTonight-SA schedule Updated 1/30/2026

name: asking-users description: AskUserQuestion protocol for confidence gates. Use when uncertain or before destructive actions. version: 1.0.0 triggers: - confidence < 99% - destructive actions - UI/UX decisions - multi-step tasks

Asking Users

AskUserQuestion is MANDATORY when confidence drops below threshold.

When to Use (MANDATORY)

Trigger Action
Confidence < 99% HALT and ask
Destructive action HALT and confirm
UI/UX decision HALT and present options
Multi-step task Checkpoint every 3 steps
Assumption identified HALT and validate

The Bidirectional Pattern

Every question teaches AND collects:

Question → User learns something → We collect preference

Good Example

Question: "Icon placement affects perceived hierarchy. Where should the brand icon appear?"
Options:
- "Header (most prominent)" - User learns placement = prominence
- "Footer (subtle branding)" - User learns alternative

Teaching: User learns about visual hierarchy
Collecting: Brand prominence preference

Question Structure

Question: Clear, specific question ending with ?
Header: Short label (max 12 chars)
Options:
- "Option 1" - Description of what this means
- "Option 2" - Description of what this means
- "Option 3" - Description of what this means

Rules

  1. 2-4 options only - Never more than 4
  2. No "Other" in options - System adds it automatically
  3. Descriptions explain implications - Not just what, but why
  4. Headers are short - 12 characters max

Anti-Patterns

Don't Do
"Is this okay?" Specific question about the choice
5+ options 2-4 focused options
"Other" as option Let system add it
Vague headers "Database", "Auth", "Layout"

Token Budget

Component Tokens
Skill load ~400
Per question ~150

Foundation Status

This skill is ALWAYS ACTIVE. It cannot be disabled by any mode.

Install via CLI
npx skills add https://github.com/CodeTonight-SA/claude-modes --skill asking-users
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