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dotnet-update-packages

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Use when user mentions updating NuGet packages, checking for outdated dependencies, upgrading .NET package versions, or asks about package updates in a .NET project.

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How to use this skill

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  1. Open your project in Codex.
  2. Copy the prompt below and paste it into your agent.
  3. Review the proposed files and risks before you approve installation.
Prompt to paste
I want to install this Agent Skill for this project in Codex.

Source SKILL.md: https://github.com/majiayu000/claude-skill-registry/blob/HEAD/skills/data/dotnet-update-packages/SKILL.md

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First, summarize what it does, its dependencies, license status if identifiable, and any risks. Show the exact files you propose to add under .agents/skills/dotnet-update-packages/. Do not write files or run scripts until I approve.

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.NET Package Updates

When to Use

This skill applies when the user:

  • Asks about outdated NuGet packages
  • Wants to update dependencies in a .NET project
  • Mentions package version upgrades
  • Discusses dependency management in .NET

Workflow

  1. List outdated packages (including transitive) using:

    dotnet package list --outdated --include-transitive --format json

  2. Parse output to identify:

    • Projects with outdated packages
    • Whether each package is direct or transitive

  3. Analyze project dependencies by reading <ProjectReference> elements in each csproj

  4. Present findings in a readable format showing project, package name, current → latest version

  5. Confirm with user before making changes

  6. Update packages per project with --project parameter:

    • Update leaf projects first (no dependencies)
    • Then update dependent projects
    • Independent branches can run in parallel
    dotnet package update <package> --project <path-to-csproj>

  7. Verify with dotnet build

  8. If build fails, ask user:

    • Fix automatically (review errors, apply fixes)
    • Fix manually (show errors, let user handle)

Key Commands

CommandPurpose
dotnet package list --outdated --include-transitive --format jsonList outdated packages (incl. transitive)
dotnet package update <name> --project <path>Update specific package in project
dotnet package update --project <path>Update all packages in project

Transitive vs Direct Packages

  • Direct: Explicitly in csproj. Update directly.
  • Transitive: Pulled in by dependencies. Marked [T] in output.
    • To update: update the parent package, or add direct reference to pin version

Notes

  • Requires .NET 8+ SDK for dotnet package update
  • Always use --project parameter to update per-project
  • Update in dependency order: leaves first, then dependents
  • Always confirm with user before updating
  • Run build after updates to catch breaking changes