Master ShellCheck static analysis configuration and usage for shell script quality.
SkillScore100Maintained
Automatic
◆Coding pack
Last verified 8/11/2026
What it changes
Passed 25 of 25 test cases with the skill, and 20 of 25 without it.
Without skill80%
With skill100%
Checks it passed that the model alone missed
Specifies `--format=json` for JSON formatted output.
Specifies `--format=quiet` to suppress message output.
Identifies `SHELLCHECK_SHELL` as the environment variable.
and 2 more in the full report
5 fixed20 passed either way0 still failing0 broke
Pass-rate lift
+20 pp
Tokens
+169%
Agent turns
0%
Response time
-22%
Model gemini-3.6-flashMeasured 8/11/2026v125 of 25 cases passed with skill
Tokens, turns and time describe resource use, not a dollar price.
See it in action
One of 5 test cases the skill fixed. Same model, same prompt, with and without the skill.
1 of 5
Prompt
In a minimal status check script, we only want to evaluate whether static analysis found issues via its exit status code, suppressing all message output. What `--format` option achieves this?
What was checked, without and with the skill
Checked
Without skill
With skill
Specifies `--format=quiet` to suppress message output.
Missed
Passed
case-16 · gemini-3.6-flash · 8/11/2026 · answers are capped and redacted
What's inside
The instructions your model reads when the skill loads.
SKILL.md466 linessingle file
ShellCheck Configuration and Static Analysis
Comprehensive guidance for configuring and using ShellCheck to improve shell script quality, catch common pitfalls, and enforce best practices through static code analysis.
Do not use this skill when
The task is unrelated to shellcheck configuration and static analysis
You need a different domain or tool outside this scope
Instructions
Clarify goals, constraints, and required inputs.
Apply relevant best practices and validate outcomes.
Provide actionable steps and verification.
If detailed examples are required, open resources/implementation-playbook.md.
Use this skill when
Setting up linting for shell scripts in CI/CD pipelines
Analyzing existing shell scripts for issues
Understanding ShellCheck error codes and warnings
Configuring ShellCheck for specific project requirements
Integrating ShellCheck into development workflows
Suppressing false positives and configuring rule sets
Enforcing consistent code quality standards
Migrating scripts to meet quality gates
ShellCheck Fundamentals
What is ShellCheck?
ShellCheck is a static analysis tool that analyzes shell scripts and detects problematic patterns. It supports: