AgentSkillTree
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Agent Handoff

Write a handoff note that lets the next agent continue without re-reading the whole session.

Scope
Producing and maintaining the handoff artifact only.
Last reviewed
Checked Jul 31, 2026

Executes these capabilities

Inside this skill

The internal capability tree shows how this skill gets its work done.

SAgent Handoff
  • state summarization
  • next-step definition
  • risk flagging

The contract

Input

  • The current session state
  • Files changed and decisions made
  • Open questions

Output

  • A handoff note covering status, decisions, next steps, and risks

Deliverables

  • HANDOFF.md or equivalent

Use cases

  • Ending a work session
  • Switching agents mid-task
  • Resuming after a long break

Dependencies and replacements

Dependencies

  • project-memory for durable context

Required tools

  • A text editor

Required permissions

  • Write access to the repository

Compatible with

  • project-memory
  • validation-checklist

Alternatives

  • Verbal handoff with the next agent
  • Issue descriptions

Replaceable components

  • The file name and template

Reliability

Human checkpoints

  • Confirm the handoff captures the true state

Limitations

  • A handoff is a snapshot, not a guarantee
  • Loses value if not updated at the end of each session

Failure modes

  • Handoff written from memory instead of the diff
  • Next steps stated as vague intentions
  • Risks hidden to avoid admitting problems

Recovery steps

  • Regenerate the handoff from the latest git diff
  • Rewrite next steps as concrete tasks with acceptance criteria
  • List risks without judgment

Validation methods

  • A fresh agent follows the handoff to the stated next step

Sources

Entry checked on Jul 31, 2026. Verification status reflects what AgentSkillTree has independently run, not the skill's own claims.

When to use

Use at the end of any session where another agent or another day will continue the work. The handoff answers: where are we, what changed, what is next, and what could go wrong.