PUA Skill

PUA Skill is an open-source Claude Code skill that forces an AI coding agent into exhaustive problem-solving through pressure escalation.

The PUA Debugging Skill is an open-source extension for AI coding agents that applies structured pressure to prevent premature surrender. It features a 4-level pressure escalation system, a mandatory 7-item checklist, and a 5-step systematic debugging methodology. The core engine includes 12 modular skills such as a 3-question self-review, a technical lead prompt manager, a strategy planner, an auto-iteration loop running up to 30 rounds, and specialized tone modes. The system was validated across 9 real-world debugging scenarios and 18 controlled experiments using Claude Opus 4.6. It is completely free and open-source under the MIT license and works with Claude Code, OpenAI Codex CLI, Cursor, Windsurf, and other agents supporting the Agent Skills specification.

PUA Skill at a glance

Best for: Software engineer
Runs on: Web, API, CLI, open source
Pricing: Free plan; open-source
Released: March 2026
Category: AI coding tool
Website: openpua.ai

Key features

4-Level Pressure Escalation
7-Item Mandatory Checklist
5-Step Methodology
12 Modular Skills
Auto-Iteration Loop up to 30 Rounds
Specialized Tone and Persona Modes

Use it for

Debugging complex API failures and build errors
Resolving dependency conflicts and race conditions
Conducting security and configuration reviews

Companions

Tools that articles about PUA Skill recommend using with it, each with its job.

Claude Code — Built to work with Claude Code.
Context7 — Provides up-to-date documentation for AI agents and code editors.
Playwright MCP — Enables LLMs to interact with web pages using structured accessibility snapshots.
GitHub MCP Server — Reads pull requests, issues and code search on GitHub.
Superpowers — Brainstorm, plan and execute skills for bigger tasks.
gstack — Skill bundle for planning, review and shipping.

Alternatives to PUA Skill

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CTF Skills — Provides structured agent skills and automated tools for solving complex CTF challenges.

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