What Does "Lead with the Next Action" Mean? Rule 1 of the i-have-adhd Skill

Rule 1: Lead with the next action requires starting every response with an immediate, executable command, file path, or code snippet that the user can run right now, placing all explanatory text only after this actionable first line.

The ayghri/i-have-adhd repository defines a communication framework optimized for developers with ADHD who have limited working memory. According to the skill definition in skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md, this rule eliminates the "thinking-vs-doing" gap by providing an instantaneous focal point that prevents decision paralysis.

Understanding Rule 1: Lead with the Next Action

Rule 1 dictates that the opening line of any instructional content must contain the very first concrete step the reader can take. This is not a description, context statement, or multi-step plan, but rather a single, standalone instruction such as a terminal command, file path, or code block.

The formal definition appears in the skill file at lines 35-43, where the authors contrast ineffective and effective approaches:

• Bad: "Let's think about this. Your auth flow has a few moving pieces…"
• Good: "Run npm install jsonwebtoken, then edit src/auth.ts:42."

Why This Matters for ADHD Developers

The rule addresses specific cognitive challenges by enforcing three key benefits:

1. Reduces the thinking-vs-doing gap that typically stalls progress before it begins.
2. Provides a clear focus point that remains visible on screen, helping the user remember their next move without holding it in working memory.
3. Creates a visible "win" immediately upon executing the suggested command or editing the file, generating momentum for subsequent steps.

How to Apply "Lead with the Next Action" in Practice

The implementation follows a strict three-step sequence to ensure compliance with the rule as defined in the source files.

Identify the Smallest Usable Step

Determine the first physical action the user can perform immediately. If the solution involves installing a package, opening a file, or running a test, select the initial action that requires no prerequisite steps.

Compose the Action Line

Write the instruction as a standalone line prefixed by an action verb such as "Run", "Open", "Add", or "Edit". This line must be executable or actionable without reading subsequent text.

Add Context After the Action

Place all explanatory text, reasoning, and "what-next" information after the initial action line. This prose is optional and should only appear if it adds immediate value to executing the step.

Good vs. Bad Examples

The following examples from skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md demonstrate the correct formatting:

Incorrect Usage (Preamble before action):

First, we need to add JWT support to the project. Install the library and then modify the source file.

Run `npm install jsonwebtoken`.

Correct Usage (Action first):

Run `npm install jsonwebtoken` to add the JWT library.

After the installation finishes, open `src/auth.ts` and replace the placeholder verification code with the snippet below:

```ts
import jwt from 'jsonwebtoken';
// …

In the incorrect example, the first line is descriptive rather than actionable, forcing the reader to process context before knowing what to do. The correct example provides the command immediately, allowing the user to execute while reading the explanation.

## Source Files and Implementation

The rule is formally defined and referenced across multiple files in the repository:

- **[`skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md)** (lines 35-43): Contains the authoritative definition, bad/good comparisons, and rationale for the rule.
- **[`README.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/README.md)** (line 64): Lists "Lead with the next action" in the quick-start checklist for repository users.
- **[`INSTALL.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/INSTALL.md)** (lines 42-44): Repeats the rule across multiple sections to demonstrate consistent application throughout installation steps.

By placing the actionable instruction at the absolute start of every response, the **i-have-adhd** skill ensures readers can jump directly into work, maintaining high momentum and low cognitive load.

## Summary

- **Rule 1: Lead with the next action** mandates that every response begins with an immediate, executable step rather than explanatory text.
- The rule targets ADHD developers by reducing working memory load and eliminating the gap between reading and doing.
- Implementation requires placing commands, file paths, or code snippets on the first line, with all context following afterward.
- Source definitions reside in [`skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md) (lines 35-43), with additional references in [`README.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/README.md) and [`INSTALL.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/INSTALL.md).

## Frequently Asked Questions

### What is the main purpose of "Lead with the next action"?

The primary purpose is to reduce cognitive friction for readers with ADHD by providing an immediate, concrete task that can be executed without first processing explanatory text. This prevents decision paralysis and creates an instant "win" that builds momentum for completing subsequent steps.

### How is Rule 1 implemented in the i-have-adhd skill files?

Rule 1 is formally defined in [`skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/skills/i-have-adhd/SKILL.md) at lines 35-43, which provides the bad and good examples. The rule is also enforced in [`README.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/README.md) (line 64) and [`INSTALL.md`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/INSTALL.md) (lines 42-44) to ensure consistency across all documentation in the repository.

### Can I use "Lead with the next action" in my own documentation?

Yes. To apply this rule to your own technical writing, begin every instructional section with a standalone command or file path (e.g., "Run `npm test`" or "Open [`config/settings.py`](https://github.com/ayghri/i-have-adhd/blob/main/config/settings.py)"), then follow with explanation. The key is ensuring the first line requires zero prior context to execute.

### What makes an action line effective for ADHD readers?

An effective action line contains a specific verb, a concrete resource (command, path, or code), and requires no conditional logic or prior reading to execute. It should be copy-paste ready or physically actionable the moment the user reads it, reducing the working memory required to initiate the task.

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "instagit": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": ["-y", "instagit@latest"]
    }
  }
}