ast-grep-find
AST-based code search and refactoring via ast-grep MCP
Best use case
ast-grep-find is best used when you need a repeatable AI agent workflow instead of a one-off prompt.
AST-based code search and refactoring via ast-grep MCP
Teams using ast-grep-find should expect a more consistent output, faster repeated execution, less prompt rewriting.
When to use this skill
- You want a reusable workflow that can be run more than once with consistent structure.
When not to use this skill
- You only need a quick one-off answer and do not need a reusable workflow.
- You cannot install or maintain the underlying files, dependencies, or repository context.
Installation
Claude Code / Cursor / Codex
Manual Installation
- Download SKILL.md from GitHub
- Place it in
.claude/skills/ast-grep-find/SKILL.mdinside your project - Restart your AI agent — it will auto-discover the skill
How ast-grep-find Compares
| Feature / Agent | ast-grep-find | Standard Approach |
|---|---|---|
| Platform Support | Not specified | Limited / Varies |
| Context Awareness | High | Baseline |
| Installation Complexity | Unknown | N/A |
Frequently Asked Questions
What does this skill do?
AST-based code search and refactoring via ast-grep MCP
Where can I find the source code?
You can find the source code on GitHub using the link provided at the top of the page.
SKILL.md Source
# AST-Grep Find
Structural code search that understands syntax. Find patterns like function calls, imports, class definitions - not just text.
## When to Use
- Find code patterns (ignores strings/comments)
- Search for function calls, class definitions, imports
- Refactor code with AST precision
- Rename variables/functions across codebase
## Usage
### Search for a pattern
```bash
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "import asyncio" --language python
```
### Search in specific directory
```bash
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "async def \$FUNC(\$\$\$)" --language python --path "./src"
```
### Refactor/replace pattern
```bash
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "console.log(\$MSG)" --replace "logger.info(\$MSG)" \
--language javascript
```
### Dry run (preview changes)
```bash
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "print(\$X)" --replace "logger.info(\$X)" \
--language python --dry-run
```
## Parameters
| Parameter | Description |
|-----------|-------------|
| `--pattern` | AST pattern to search (required) |
| `--language` | Language: `python`, `javascript`, `typescript`, `go`, etc. |
| `--path` | Directory to search (default: `.`) |
| `--glob` | File glob pattern (e.g., `**/*.py`) |
| `--replace` | Replacement pattern for refactoring |
| `--dry-run` | Preview changes without applying |
| `--context` | Lines of context (default: 2) |
## Pattern Syntax
| Syntax | Meaning |
|--------|---------|
| `$NAME` | Match single node (variable, expression) |
| `$$$` | Match multiple nodes (arguments, statements) |
| `$_` | Match any single node (wildcard) |
## Examples
```bash
# Find all function definitions
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "def \$FUNC(\$\$\$):" --language python
# Find console.log calls
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "console.log(\$\$\$)" --language javascript
# Replace print with logging
uv run python -m runtime.harness scripts/ast_grep_find.py \
--pattern "print(\$X)" --replace "logging.info(\$X)" \
--language python --dry-run
```
## vs morph/warpgrep
| Tool | Best For |
|------|----------|
| **ast-grep** | Structural patterns (understands code syntax) |
| **warpgrep** | Fast text/regex search (20x faster grep) |
Use ast-grep when you need syntax-aware matching. Use warpgrep for raw speed.
## MCP Server Required
Requires `ast-grep` server in mcp_config.json.Related Skills
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