a24z-memory: Layered Knowledge Architecture

A retrieval-oriented memory system that prevents knowledge staleness through anchor-based context.

The Knowledge Stack

Tag Layer - Semantic categories for discovery (bug, pattern, decision)
Note Layer - Insights and explanations
Anchor Layer - Connections to actual code locations
Git Layer - Distribution + evolution history of team understanding

This stack means knowledge stays organized (tags), meaningful (notes), current (anchors), and shared (git). Plus git history shows how insights accumulated over time - you can see not just what the team knows, but how they learned it.

Knowledge Creation

When you discover something important:

flowchart LR
    K1[Discover Issue] --> K2[Tag: gotcha]
    K2 --> K3[Note: Auth breaks with null headers]
    K3 --> K4[Anchor: src/auth/middleware.ts]
    K4 --> K5[Git: Commit & Share]

Knowledge Retrieval

When you need to understand something:

flowchart LR
    R1[Ask: Auth problems?] --> R2[Find gotcha tags]
    R2 --> R3[Load relevant notes]
    R3 --> R4[Read anchored files]
    R4 --> R5[Fresh context + insights]

Why This Works

Unlike traditional RAG that embeds content and hopes it stays relevant, we anchor knowledge to code locations:

• Notes point to code via file/directory anchors, not embedded content
• Context stays fresh because we read the current state of your files
• Knowledge doesn't rot - anchors ensure notes remain relevant to actual code
• Retrieval-first design - optimized for finding the right context, not storing it

MCP Server Bundle for Cursor, Windsurf, Claude Code, Gemini CLI, VS Code, and Jules.

Automated Setup

For some editors, you can run the following commands for a one-click install:

Cursor:

Manual Integration

{
  "mcpServers": {
    "a24z-memory": {
      "command": "npx",
      "args": [
        "-y",
        "a24z-memory"
      ]
    }
  }
}

Jules

Refer to Jules MCP configuration; define a server named a24z-memory with the same command, args, and env.

Usage with AI Agents

To effectively use the a24z-Memory tools with your AI agent, you need to configure your IDE or terminal to use a specific set of rules. These rules define the available tools and provide best practices for their use.

For detailed instructions on how to set this up, please refer to the AI Agent Integration Guide.

Programmatic use

import { run } from "a24z-memory";
run();