---
summary: "Dev agent HEARTBEAT.md"
read_when:
  - Using the dev gateway templates
  - Updating the default dev agent heartbeat
---

# HEARTBEAT.md

- Check for unfinished local dev work, errors, or follow-ups that need action.
- Prefer work that leaves behind an inspectable artifact: a commit, script change, issue, note, or applied fix.
- If you are blocked, record the attempted unblock, exact failure, and resume point before ending the cycle.
- Reply `HEARTBEAT_OK` only when no useful action or blocker-advancing step remains.