mdsel

mdsel

mdsel is a markdown selective reader with three modes:

1. Index (no selector) — returns a table of contents with all headings and available selectors. This IS an overview.
2. Select — returns only the matched sections by selector path.
3. Search — fuzzy match a keyword against headings, returns matching selectors.

Workflow

1. Index first: mdsel README.md (no selector) → get the TOC
2. Then either:
   • Select: mdsel "h2.4,h3.6" README.md — grab specific sections
   • Search: mdsel "installation" README.md — fuzzy-find by keyword

0-based indexing. Always index before selecting.

NEVER use the * wildcard selector. If you need the entire document, use the Read tool instead — that's what it's for. The purpose of mdsel is selective reading to save tokens.

When to use Read instead

Use the Read tool for markdown files when:

• You need the entire file content (don't use mdsel with * or root — just use Read)
• You plan to edit the file (Edit tool requires prior Read)