React Query

When to use

Use whenever you’re writing or reviewing code that uses TanStack Query v5. The skill catches common anti-patterns, enforces best practices, and helps migrate from v4 patterns.

How it works

Operates in two modes:

Review mode

Audits existing code for critical issues and anti-patterns:

• Server state copied to client state (useState + useEffect that copies query data)
• fetch() without response.ok checking
• Cache mutation via setQueryData without returning new references
• Missing invalidation in onSettled
• gcTime lower than staleTime
• Scattered inline query keys instead of queryOptions factories

Coding mode

Enforces strict v5 patterns when writing new code:

• queryOptions factories for type-safe, reusable query definitions
• Proper query key hierarchies
• Correct mutation callback separation
• Suspense integration with React 19

Invoke

/rvanbaalen:react-query

Also auto-triggers when it detects @tanstack/react-query imports in your code.