Knowns CLI is a CLI-first knowledge management system designed to give AI persistent memory of project context. It serves as a complete toolkit for tasks, documentation, and time tracking that's built specifically for developers and optimized for AI workflows. The tool addresses the fundamental problem of AI assistants lacking project memory by creating a structured system where context is automatically available.

Key features include task management with acceptance criteria and progress tracking, automatic AI context resolution where assistants auto-resolve documentation and task references, MCP auto-setup for seamless integration with AI tools, modular AI guidelines with stage-specific rules, built-in time tracking with timer functionality and reporting, and a Git-friendly web UI with Kanban board and documentation browser. The system works by maintaining project knowledge in Markdown files within a .knowns/ directory, ensuring zero lock-in and compatibility with version control.

The product solves the common frustration of constantly managing AI memory and correcting errors by allowing AI to read project context directly. When working on tasks, AI automatically understands task states, checks documentation, and knows exactly what completion criteria look like without manual intervention. The system also closes the feedback loop by enabling AI to extract and update project knowledge automatically when solving problems.

Benefits include eliminating repetitive context sharing, reducing errors from missing information, improving AI productivity by keeping prompts concise, and maintaining consistent project knowledge. Use cases span developers working with AI assistants on complex projects, teams needing structured task management, and individuals wanting to optimize their AI workflow efficiency.

Target users are developers working with AI tools who need persistent project context management. The tool integrates with popular AI assistants including Claude, Cursor, Windsurf, GitHub Copilot, Gemini, OpenAI Codex, Cline, Antigravity, and others via MCP integration or CLAUDE.md/AGENTS.md files. Technical details include Node.js 18+ or Bun 1.0+ requirements, MIT licensing, and open-source availability.