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name: hybrid-search-implementation description: "Combine vector and keyword search for improved retrieval. Use when implementing RAG systems, building search engines, or when neither approach alone provides sufficient recall." risk: safe source: community date_added: "2026-02-27"

Hybrid Search Implementation

Patterns for combining vector similarity and keyword-based search.

Use this skill when

• Building RAG systems with improved recall
• Combining semantic understanding with exact matching
• Handling queries with specific terms (names, codes)
• Improving search for domain-specific vocabulary
• When pure vector search misses keyword matches

Do not use this skill when

• The task is unrelated to hybrid search implementation
• You need a different domain or tool outside this scope

Instructions

• Clarify goals, constraints, and required inputs.
• Apply relevant best practices and validate outcomes.
• Provide actionable steps and verification.
• If detailed examples are required, open resources/implementation-playbook.md.

Resources

• resources/implementation-playbook.md for detailed patterns and examples.

Limitations

• Use this skill only when the task clearly matches the scope described above.
• Do not treat the output as a substitute for environment-specific validation, testing, or expert review.
• Stop and ask for clarification if required inputs, permissions, safety boundaries, or success criteria are missing.