# Custom CLIs

Custom CLIs give agents large gains.

What it can see: only this page.

[Source on GitHub](https://github.com/mbsi-labs/skills/tree/main/rules/custom-clis).

## The rule itself

Custom CLIs give agents large gains. Use them and make them.

Before you do a task by hand, look for a CLI that does it. To learn how a CLI works, run `<name> help` or `<name> --help`. If no CLI does the task and the task will occur again, make a small CLI for it.

Look for CLIs in your shell's path and in the folder where you keep your own projects. If you keep tickets, notes and predictions in a CLI, use it, and keep it in your hand-off.

## Use it

Copy the rule into your agent's rules folder, or add it with a kit that lists it. Your agent reads it at the start of each session.

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Published 2026-10-29. Web page: https://www.mackenziebowes.com/rules/custom-clis Part of [Rules](https://www.mackenziebowes.com/rules).