# Workbench documentation

Workbench helps turn a Pi workflow problem into a useful answer, an authorized Prompt or Skill edit, a documented decision, or a technical handoff. Its core works as the sole installed Extension.

For agents, use the [compact documentation index](llm/README.md).

| Document | When to use it |
| --- | --- |
| [Architecture and behavior](architecture.md) | Understand native entries, reload continuation, indexing, backups, standalone boundaries and validation limits. |
| [Project README](../README.md) | Find prerequisites, local loading, usage and supporting tools. |
| [Collaboration guide](../guides/workbench.md) | Follow Workbench's packaged collaboration workflow and choose the relevant authoring branch. |
| [Direct Pi authoring](../guides/pi-authoring.md) | Author native Markdown slashprompts or Appends at their configured originals, check Append shadowing, apply the Pi-only backup boundary and verify authorized effects. |
| [Skill authoring](../guides/skill-authoring.md) | Create or revise a Skill using the bundled writing method and native Pi mechanics. |
| [Adaptable examples](../guides/templates.md) | Choose optional templates without treating their integrations as core prerequisites. |
| [Security policy](../SECURITY.md) | Understand process permissions, stored data and retention limits. |

Existing guides remain at their responsible paths. This index does not install resources or authorize changes. Tests are local development aids, excluded from the repository and package; source, SDK/offline-provider evidence and real-model behavior remain distinct.