Guide

Codex repo readiness checklist.

A coding agent works best when the repository tells it what matters, how to verify changes, and where not to make risky guesses. This is the checklist I use before a repo becomes a good candidate for fixed-scope AI-assisted repair work.

1. Define the command map

Put the real setup, test, lint, typecheck, build, and smoke commands in one place. Include the package manager and expected runtime version. A command map prevents slow discovery and makes every patch easier to verify.

Setup: npm install
Tests: npm test -- --runInBand
Lint: npm run lint
Build: npm run build
Smoke: npm run dev, then open /health

2. Write the agent contract

Add an AGENTS.md or contributor note that states coding style, ownership boundaries, verification expectations, no-go areas, and how to handle generated files. This is especially useful when more than one agent or developer touches the repo.

What files are source of truth?
Which generated files should not be hand edited?
Which tests prove a normal patch?
Which actions require maintainer approval?

3. Make failures reproducible

A good repair request includes the failing command, the observed error, the expected behavior, and a small input or route that triggers the bug. Without that, the first paid hour becomes archaeology.

4. Keep secrets out of the workflow

Use sample env files and fake fixtures. Do not send production credentials, customer data, private keys, payment details, or anything you are not allowed to share. If live credentials are needed, the work is not a fixed-scope public intake job.

5. Require proof with every patch

The final handoff should say what changed, what command proved it, and what was not tested. This keeps Codex-assisted work closer to a reviewable engineering change than a vague code dump.

Want this applied to a repo?

Send a sanitized repo link, failing command, and target outcome. I can turn it into a short readiness report, AGENTS.md patch, and verification checklist.

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