name: sh:ralph
description: "Start persistent Ralph loop for iterative task completion"
allowed-tools: ["Bash(scripts/setup-ralph-loop.sh:*)"]
disable-model-invocation: true

/sh:ralph — Start Ralph Loop

Usage

/sh:ralph PROMPT [--max-iterations N] [--completion-promise TEXT]

Behavioral Flow

1. Execute Setup: Run the setup script to initialize the Ralph loop:
   ! scripts/setup-ralph-loop.sh $ARGUMENTS
2. Work on Task: Begin working on the task described in PROMPT
3. Loop: When you try to exit, the Ralph loop feeds the SAME PROMPT back for the next iteration. Previous work is visible in files and git history, allowing iterative improvement
4. Exit Condition: The loop continues until the completion promise is genuinely fulfilled, or /sh:cancel is invoked

Related Commands

• /sh:autopilot — starts inside the Ralph loop for autonomous task execution
• /sh:handoff — saves context before exiting the loop (cross-session persistence)
• /sh:kickoff — restores context on re-entry to continue where you left off

Completion Promise Rules

CRITICAL: If a completion promise is set, you may ONLY output it when the statement is completely and unequivocally TRUE.

• Do NOT output false promises to escape the loop
• Do NOT claim completion if you think you are stuck or should exit for other reasons
• Do NOT downgrade quality standards to meet the promise faster
• The loop is designed to continue until genuine completion
• If truly stuck, explain what is blocking progress — do not fabricate success

Honesty Requirements

• Each iteration must make measurable progress toward the goal
• If no progress is possible, explain why honestly rather than producing busywork
• Previous iteration output is visible — do not repeat work already done
• Acknowledge when the task is beyond current capabilities rather than looping endlessly