diff --git a/.cursor/commands/preflight-learning-path.md b/.cursor/commands/preflight-learning-path.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..ad34a3aa7
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/commands/preflight-learning-path.md
@@ -0,0 +1,36 @@
+## Command: /preflight-learning-path
+
+Self-review a learning path package in `interactive-tutorials` **before** opening a PR. Mirrors [/review-learning-path-pr](review-learning-path-pr.md) (shared static checklists, shared claim-check, Playwright DOM) from the author side, with fewer stop-and-type moments: the agent runs what it can, then pauses only when it needs you (login, smoke choice, results / fixes).
+
+When invoked, read and follow **[preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md](../skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md)** in order.
+
+LP packages are **single-repo** (`interactive-tutorials` only). Metadata lives in package `website.yaml`; the website repo is read-only for conversion ([PR #416](https://github.com/grafana/interactive-tutorials/pull/416)). Learning Hub criteria: [learning-hub-standards.md](../skills/review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md).
+
+### Setup you need
+
+- This repo checked out with your `{slug}-lj/` package
+- **Playwright MCP** enabled in Cursor (for DOM checks)
+- Access to `https://learn.grafana.net/` (Okta login in the Playwright browser when asked)
+- Block Editor only if you choose a guided smoke walk later
+
+---
+
+## First message to the author
+
+> I'll preflight your learning path with as few interruptions as possible. I'll run the static checks on my own, then pause when I need you logged into Playwright, again for an optional Block Editor smoke choice, then once for results and fix options.
+>
+> | When I pause | Why |
+> |---|---|
+> | Path unclear | Confirm which `{slug}-lj/` package |
+> | Playwright not ready | Fix or add MCP |
+> | Before live DOM | Okta login + which stack |
+> | After DOM | Smoke: already-tested / walk-me / skip |
+> | Results | What to fix (if anything) |
+>
+> **Setup:** Playwright MCP should be on. If it is missing or broken, I'll help fix it. You'll Okta-login in the Playwright browser for DOM checks.
+>
+> Preflight reports stay under `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/` (gitignored). Don't force-add them to your PR.
+>
+> **To start:** Share the path package (`{slug}-lj/` directory), or tell me to infer it from your current branch. If you already named the path, I'll begin the static checks now.
+
+If the path is already clear from the user message, skip asking and start identify + static immediately.
diff --git a/.cursor/learning-path-workflows/workflows.md b/.cursor/learning-path-workflows/workflows.md
index 4b542aa25..24be14b1a 100644
--- a/.cursor/learning-path-workflows/workflows.md
+++ b/.cursor/learning-path-workflows/workflows.md
@@ -103,3 +103,4 @@ The learning path slug is mysql-data-source.
 | `/build-interactive-lj` | Existing milestone markdown in website repo (read-only source) | `content.json` + `manifest.json` + `website.yaml` files in interactive-tutorials |
 | `/create-learning-path` | Feature description (no existing markdown) | `content.json` + `manifest.json` + `website.yaml` files |
 | `/review-learning-path-pr` | Existing LP PR in `interactive-tutorials` (share PR URL/number) | Human-guided review: static workbook, Block Editor smoke test, chat-approved inline comments, submit |
+| `/preflight-learning-path` | Local `{slug}-lj/` package before opening a PR | Author self-review with few pauses (login, smoke choice, results): mirrors review static + Playwright checks and shared claim-check, readiness report, optional fixes / frontend testid PR |
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..f3c3fa539
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md
@@ -0,0 +1,457 @@
+---
+name: preflight-learning-path
+description: >-
+  Guide a learning path author through pre-PR self-review in interactive-tutorials.
+  Mirrors /review-learning-path-pr (shared static checklists, shared claim-check,
+  Playwright DOM, readiness) from the author side, then optional package fixes and
+  optional frontend data-testid PR. Use when the user runs /preflight-learning-path.
+---
+
+# Preflight learning path (author self-review)
+
+Walk through a `{slug}-lj/` package **before you open a PR**. Mirrors [review-learning-path](../review-learning-path/SKILL.md): shared static checklists, shared [claim-check](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md), Playwright DOM, then readiness and optional fixes. Author flow batches agent work and pauses only at real human gates (not a five-stop quiz).
+
+**Terminology:** Say **learning path** or **path** in author messages; use `{path_dir}` in agent notes.
+
+**Entry command:** [/preflight-learning-path](../../commands/preflight-learning-path.md)
+
+**Mirror skill:** [review-learning-path](../review-learning-path/SKILL.md). Shared claim policy lives under the review skill so both callers cannot drift.
+
+**Do NOT read external reference files upfront.** Each step loads its own references on demand.
+
+**Skill memory:** State lives in `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/` (gitignored; never commit). Static pass dispatches [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md), which writes `{milestone}/assets/`. See [Commit safety](#commit-safety).
+
+**Routing:** [reference-checks.md](reference-checks.md) · [claim-check.md](claim-check.md) (pointer) · [author-testing.md](author-testing.md) · [frontend-selector-pr.md](frontend-selector-pr.md) · shared [claim-check](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md) · shared [learning-hub-standards.md](../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md) · shared [review reference-checks](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md)
+
+**Related:** [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md) · [update-guide](../update-guide/SKILL.md) · [review-learning-path](../review-learning-path/SKILL.md)
+
+---
+
+## Voice (author-facing)
+
+Write like a calm teammate helping someone ship, not like a linter report.
+
+| Do | Don't |
+|---|---|
+| Short sentences; plain words | Jargon in chat (`post-inline`, `MUST FIX`, "refresh readiness", rule numbers) |
+| Say what is wrong, why it matters, which file | Dump severity labels or audit counts |
+| Offer only actions that can resolve the item | Offer **fix N** when the real fix is upstream |
+| Celebrate clean passes briefly | Hedge with "seems fine" / "maybe" |
+| Pause only when you truly need the author | Quiz them with "reply yes" between agent-only steps |
+
+No em dashes in author chat, readiness text, or drafted PR bodies. Use periods, commas, or parentheses.
+
+Address the author as **you**. Prefer "copy fixes," "product claims vs docs," "UI selectors," "smoke test," "ready / not-ready summary."
+
+---
+
+## Author experience (hard flow)
+
+Do as much as you can without stopping. Authors should not confirm every internal phase.
+
+**Pause only for:**
+
+1. Path unclear (ambiguous / missing `{path_dir}`)
+2. Playwright MCP blocked or broken (setup)
+3. Okta / browser ready before DOM checks (and stack choice, unless already known)
+4. Block Editor smoke choice (and walk-me replies if they choose guided smoke)
+5. Results + fix menu (and later fix / frontend / done)
+
+**Do not** pause for "Phase 0 complete, reply yes" or "Phase 1 complete, reply yes" when the path is known and MCP is healthy. Run identify → static → then ask for login in one beat.
+
+Internal **checkpoint** names (see [state schema](reference-checks.md#state-file-schema)) stay in state and agent notes. Author chat can say "checking your path," "live checks," "results" instead of a quiz board.
+
+---
+
+## Human-in-the-loop contract
+
+| You (agent) | Author (human) |
+|---|---|
+| Infer path when clear; confirm only if ambiguous | Share `{path_dir}` when asked |
+| Run static + claim-check without a mid-stop | Wait or do other work |
+| Open Playwright; ask when logged in | Okta in Playwright browser; reply when ready |
+| Run DOM checks; then ask about smoke | `already-tested` / `walk-me` / `skip-smoke` |
+| One results + fix menu | `fix all` / `fix N` / `frontend` / `done` / `show report` |
+| Apply package or frontend fixes only when asked | Approve edits / push |
+
+---
+
+## Workflow overview
+
+```
+Input (path_dir or current branch)
+  │
+  ├─ Identify + MCP check ─────── quiet unless path/MCP needs the author
+  │
+  ├─ Static pass ─────────────── audit + path/LH + claim-check (no author yes)
+  │
+  ├─ PAUSE: login + stack ────── Playwright Okta; stack (or static-only if allowed)
+  │
+  ├─ Playwright DOM ──────────── required (unless static-only)
+  │
+  ├─ PAUSE: smoke choice ─────── already-tested / walk-me / skip-smoke
+  │
+  ├─ Results + fix menu ──────── one readiness summary (former Phase 3)
+  │
+  ├─ Optional package fixes ──── fix all / fix N
+  │
+  └─ Optional frontend testid ── when needs-frontend
+```
+
+---
+
+## Inputs
+
+- **Required**: `{path_dir}` ending in `-lj/` (for example `monitor-azure-resources-lj`). Infer from current branch if omitted; confirm if ambiguous.
+- **Optional**: `website_slug` (`{path_dir}` minus `-lj`). Website repo is read-only for conversion ([PR #416](https://github.com/grafana/interactive-tutorials/pull/416)).
+- **Optional**: `learn_host` (default `learn.grafana.net`).
+- **Optional**: `waive_live_testing` via `static-only: <reason>` at the login/stack pause. See [static-only preflight](reference-checks.md#static-only-preflight).
+
+---
+
+## Prerequisites
+
+See [author-testing.md § Prerequisites](author-testing.md#prerequisites). Identify verifies Playwright MCP before live checks.
+
+---
+
+## Safety invariants
+
+1. **Do not modify** `content.json`, `manifest.json`, or `website.yaml` until the author requests package-fixable fixes.
+2. **Never commit** preflight artifacts (`.cursor/lp-preflight-state/` or audit-guide files under `{milestone}/assets/`). Remind the author once that reports are local and gitignored.
+3. **Surface only review-level** findings in chat and readiness (same bar as review [comment-style](../review-learning-path/comment-style.md)). Never dump Internal/Discard nits.
+4. **No em dashes** in author-facing chat, readiness text, or drafted PR bodies.
+5. **One preflight run per path slug** (resume from state; do not fork duplicate state files).
+6. **Never** plan companion website / `pathfinder_data` / shortcode work as package blockers.
+
+---
+
+## Commit safety
+
+Same snapshot/cleanup rules as [review-learning-path § Commit safety](../review-learning-path/SKILL.md#commit-safety).
+
+| Artifact | Where | Mitigation |
+|---|---|---|
+| Findings, claim-check, readiness, state JSON | `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/` | `.gitignore` (must ship with this skill) |
+| audit-guide reports | `{milestone}/assets/` | Snapshot before static; delete new files before login pause |
+| Pre-existing package `assets/` | Author/migrate notes | Never delete paths listed in `pre_review_assets` |
+
+**Static snapshot:** `find {milestone}/assets -type f 2>/dev/null | sort` → store in state `pre_review_assets`.
+
+**Static cleanup (mandatory before login pause):** remove audit files not in the snapshot; verify `git status --porcelain -- {path_dir}` shows no untracked audit paths.
+
+---
+
+## How this skill runs
+
+1. Tell the author briefly what you are starting (path name when known). Do not lecture.
+2. Run every agent-only step you can before the next real pause.
+3. At a pause: one message, one clear ask. Plain language. **Do not advance** until they reply.
+4. Do **not** invent extra "reply yes if this looks right" stops between agent-only work.
+5. If they say "keep going" during a real pause (login / smoke / results), still honor that pause's need (e.g. you cannot DOM-check without login).
+
+---
+
+## Results menu format (after live)
+
+| Section | Content |
+|---|---|
+| **Header** | Friendly outcome (e.g. almost ready, with N copy fixes first) |
+| **What we checked** | Plain bullets: claims vs docs, UI selectors, smoke choice |
+| **Findings** | Numbered: what is wrong, why it matters, which file |
+| **Your turn** | Only actions that can resolve open items |
+| **Heads-up** | Optional stack note; gitignore reminder if useful |
+
+Do **not** open with a "What this check is" primer.
+
+**Useful replies:** `ready` · `add playwright mcp` · `fix playwright mcp` · `static-only: <reason>` · `already-tested: <notes>` · `walk-me` · `skip-smoke` · `pass` / `fail step N - …` / `N/A - …` · `show report` · `fix all` · `fix 1` / `fix 2` / `fix 3` · `fix 1,3` · `frontend` · `done` · `resume` / `start fresh`
+
+After package fixes, ask: **Want an updated ready / not-ready summary?** (not "refresh readiness").
+
+---
+
+## Resume
+
+If `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/{slug}.json` exists:
+
+> **Resume?** I have an in-progress preflight for `{path_dir}` (stopped at **`{checkpoint}`**).
+>
+> Reply **resume** to pick up, or **start fresh** to begin again.
+
+On resume, read `checkpoint` + `status` from state and continue from that gate. Do not invent a numeric phase.
+
+---
+
+## Identify path + MCP (quiet unless blocked)
+
+**Goal:** Confirm `{path_dir}`, `path_type`, milestones; verify Playwright MCP; init state.
+
+**Persist:** After init (or when blocked on MCP), set `checkpoint` to `identify` (still blocked) or `login` (ready for login pause). Set `status: in_progress`.
+
+### Author chat
+
+If `{path_dir}` is missing or ambiguous:
+
+> Which learning path package should I preflight? Share the `{slug}-lj/` directory, or tell me to infer it from your current branch.
+
+If path is clear, say one short line (e.g. "Preflighting `{path_dir}`. Running the static checks now.") and continue. Do **not** ask them to confirm the path/type/MCP table when everything looks fine.
+
+Mention once (early, not every pause): reports land under `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/` and are gitignored; do not force-add them to a PR.
+
+### Agent steps
+
+1. Infer or confirm `{path_dir}` (directory ending in `-lj`).
+2. Record branch and HEAD sha.
+3. Infer `website_slug` = `{path_dir}` minus `-lj` when website repo is in workspace (read-only).
+4. Infer `path_type`: `new`, `conversion`, or `update` per [path type](reference-checks.md#path-type).
+5. List milestones from path `manifest.json` `milestones` and dirs under `{path_dir}/`.
+6. **Verify Playwright MCP** (`user-playwright`). Cover missing, needs-auth, toggled-off, **and configured-but-broken** per [If Playwright MCP is missing or broken](author-testing.md#if-playwright-mcp-is-missing-or-broken). Do not silently skip. Do not edit `mcp.json` until they agree.
+7. Write `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/{slug}.json` ([state schema](reference-checks.md#state-file-schema)).
+
+If MCP is blocked, stop with the blocked shape in author-testing.md (`checkpoint: identify`). Do not run live later until tools work.
+
+---
+
+## Static pass (no author yes)
+
+**Goal:** Audit every milestone + path consistency + Learning Hub + claim-check. Keep findings for the final results menu.
+
+**Persist:** Keep `checkpoint: login` while static runs (next human gate). Do not invent a separate author-facing "static done" pause.
+
+### Agent steps
+
+1. Snapshot `pre_review_assets`; dispatch [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md) per milestone (parallel OK).
+2. Walk shared [review reference-checks](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md) + [learning-hub-standards.md](../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md).
+3. **Always scan** for framing-in-milestones, [section intro markdown that may number as a step](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#section-intro-markdown-numbered-as-a-step), and [false noops](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#noop-and-non-interactive-steps).
+4. Run Pathfinder CLI `validate --packages {path_dir}` if available.
+5. Run the shared [claim-check](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md) pass (preflight pointer: [claim-check.md](claim-check.md)). Write `{slug}-claim-check.md`. Route Contradicted / Unsupported / Overstated as Fix before PR. Do not edit package JSON here.
+6. Tag findings with review [finding routing](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#finding-routing). Keep only review-level items for later author chat.
+7. Write `{slug}-findings.md` (findings + verify-live notes).
+8. Mandatory audit cleanup; verify `git status`.
+9. Do not cite rule numbers or audit severity labels in chat.
+
+Then go straight to the login pause (unless `static-only` was already set).
+
+---
+
+## PAUSE: Login + stack
+
+**Goal:** Author is logged into Playwright on `{learn_host}`; record stack (or allow static-only when rules permit).
+
+**Persist:** Before asking, `checkpoint: login`. After `ready`, set `checkpoint: dom`. After allowed `static-only`, set `checkpoint: results` and `waive_live_testing`.
+
+> **Live checks next**
+>
+> I need you logged into `{learn_host}` in the **Playwright** browser (Okta there). I can open it for you if it is not open yet.
+>
+> Also tell me which stack you are using (for example `learn.grafana.net shared`, `fresh Cloud stack`).
+>
+> Reply **ready** when the Playwright browser is logged in (include the stack in the same reply if you have not already).
+>
+> Or **`static-only: <reason>`** to skip live testing (not for **new** / **conversion** interactive paths).
+
+**Wait for:** `ready` (+ stack), or allowed `static-only: <reason>`.
+
+Record `stack_state`, or `waive_live_testing` + `static_only_reason`.
+
+**Reject** bare `static-only` and static-only on **new** / **conversion** with interactive milestones. Precedence: [static-only preflight](reference-checks.md#static-only-preflight).
+
+If static-only: skip Playwright + smoke; jump to results menu with **Not live-tested** notes.
+
+---
+
+## Playwright DOM (no author yes between milestones)
+
+Details: [author-testing.md](author-testing.md).
+
+**Persist:** `checkpoint: dom` while sweeping; set `checkpoint: smoke` when DOM is done (before the smoke ask).
+
+| `path_type` | Scope |
+|---|---|
+| **new** / **conversion** | Every interactive milestone in path `milestones` |
+| **update** | Touched interactive milestones first; full path on request |
+
+For each milestone in scope (path order; skip prose-only / terminal):
+
+1. Derive start URL ([milestone start URL](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#milestone-start-url)).
+2. Navigate; check each `reftarget`: exists / missing / below-fold / state-dependent.
+3. Record in `playwright.{milestone-slug}`.
+
+Keep chat quiet during the sweep (or a short progress line). Prefer documenting stack gaps over false "missing" on the wrong stack.
+
+Then go to the smoke pause.
+
+---
+
+## PAUSE: Block Editor smoke
+
+**Persist:** Before asking, `checkpoint: smoke`. After the author replies, set `checkpoint: results` (or stay on `smoke` during walk-me until scoped milestones finish).
+
+> Have you already smoke-tested this path in Block Editor (Show me / Do it)?
+>
+> - **`already-tested: <short notes>`** if yes (stack + anything flaky)
+> - **`walk-me`** for a guided per-milestone check now (local JSON import)
+> - **`skip-smoke`** to continue without recording Block Editor evidence
+
+| Reply | Behavior | Readiness |
+|---|---|---|
+| `already-tested: …` | Store dogfood evidence | Can still be **Ready for PR** if Playwright clean and no open blockers |
+| `walk-me` | Guided loop per [author-testing.md](author-testing.md) | Same when scoped milestones pass or documented N/A |
+| `skip-smoke` | Continue | Cap at **Open PR with notes** |
+
+After smoke (or walk-me finishes), build readiness and show the **results menu** once.
+
+---
+
+## Results + fix menu
+
+**Goal:** One readiness outcome; right next actions. Author chat shape: [Author-facing findings](reference-checks.md#author-facing-findings).
+
+**Persist:** `checkpoint: results` when showing the menu. On `fix all` / `fix N` → `checkpoint: package_fixes`. On `frontend` → `checkpoint: frontend`. On `done` → `status: complete`, keep `checkpoint: results` (or `frontend` if that was last).
+
+### Agent steps
+
+1. Apply [selector decision tree](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#selector-decision-tree); promote only review-level items.
+2. Apply [readiness gate](reference-checks.md#readiness-gate).
+3. Write `{slug}-readiness.md` with outcome + [PR opener checklist](reference-checks.md#pr-opener-checklist).
+4. Show the results menu below. Mark each finding package-fixable or needs-frontend.
+5. Map replies: `fix all` / `fix N` → package fixes; `frontend` → frontend walkthrough; `show report` → readiness path; `done` → wrap with PR-opener notes.
+
+### When there are findings
+
+> **{Friendly outcome}**
+>
+> **What we checked**
+> - {Product claims vs live docs}
+> - {UI selectors on {stack}}
+> - {Block Editor smoke: skipped / already-tested / walked}
+>
+> **Please fix these {N}** ({short kind})
+>
+> 1. {Plain problem}. {Why / better wording}.  
+>    (`{file or dirs}`)
+> 2. …
+>
+> **Your turn** *(include only lines that apply)*
+> - **fix all** / **fix N** / **fix 1,3** — package edits we can make here
+> - **frontend** — upstream `data-testid` for item(s) {N}
+> - **done** — open a PR and leave these for review
+> - **show report** — longer write-up
+>
+> **Heads-up** *(optional)*  
+> {Stack note. Remind once if needed: preflight reports are gitignored under `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/`.}
+
+When every open item needs-frontend, omit **fix all** / **fix N**. Lead with **frontend**.
+
+### When clean
+
+> **{Ready for PR | Open PR with notes}**
+>
+> **What we checked**
+> - …
+>
+> Nothing here that would draw a review comment on copy or selectors. Nice work.
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **done** if you are opening the PR, or **show report** for the write-up.
+>
+> *(If Open PR with notes: say why in one line, e.g. Block Editor smoke was skipped.)*
+
+---
+
+## Package fixes (optional)
+
+**Goal:** Surgical edits for **package-fixable** findings only (`fix all` / `fix N`).
+
+**Persist:** `checkpoint: package_fixes` while editing; return to `checkpoint: results` after offering an updated summary.
+
+> Working on {fix all | item N | items …}. I will edit `content.json` / `manifest.json` / `website.yaml` only, same discipline as [update-guide](../update-guide/SKILL.md).
+
+1. Apply only requested package-fixable findings.
+2. Re-run Pathfinder CLI validate if content/manifests changed.
+3. Suggest re-running Playwright for touched interactive milestones when relevant.
+4. Do not commit unless the author explicitly asks.
+
+> Applied {N} fix(es).
+>
+> **Your turn:** Want an **updated ready / not-ready summary**? Or reply **frontend** / **done**.
+
+---
+
+## Frontend selector PR (optional)
+
+When a stable selector is missing upstream, follow [frontend-selector-pr.md](frontend-selector-pr.md). Canonical example: [grafana/grafana-cmab-app#1795](https://github.com/grafana/grafana-cmab-app/pull/1795).
+
+**Persist:** `checkpoint: frontend` for the whole walkthrough.
+
+> Frontend PR {url} *(or deferred)*.
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **done** when you are ready to open the learning path PR (or wait on the testid merge).
+
+---
+
+## Anti-patterns
+
+**Do not**
+
+- Quiz the author between agent-only steps ("Phase N complete, reply yes")
+- Edit package JSON without an explicit ask
+- Leave audit artifacts in milestone `assets/`
+- Commit `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/`
+- Surface Internal/Discard nits in chat or readiness
+- Use em dashes, rule numbers, Blocker labels, or "refresh readiness"
+- Force a full Block Editor loop when they already dogfooded
+- Offer **fix N** as the main path for a needs-frontend finding
+- Recommend **Ready for PR** with open review-level items
+- Recommend **Ready for PR** on **new** / **conversion** interactive paths when Playwright was skipped
+- Request website-repo changes as package blockers
+- Use the PR review tool instead of local import (no PR yet)
+- Leave `checkpoint` stale across gates (resume depends on it)
+
+**Do**
+
+- Batch agent work; pause only for real human gates
+- Persist named `checkpoint` after each gate
+- Keep chat short, clear, and friendly
+- Dedupe findings by root cause
+- Run CLI validate when available
+- Offer package vs frontend actions correctly after the results menu
+- Run the shared claim-check (same policy as review)
+
+---
+
+## Generated files
+
+Write under `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/` (never commit; gitignored):
+
+| File | Purpose |
+|---|---|
+| `{slug}.json` | Machine state ([schema](reference-checks.md#state-file-schema)) |
+| `{slug}-findings.md` | Findings + verify-live notes |
+| `{slug}-claim-check.md` | Claim-check report |
+| `{slug}-readiness.md` | Ready / not-ready summary + PR opener checklist |
+| `{slug}/audits/{milestone}/` | Optional copied audit reports before cleanup |
+
+```markdown
+---
+disclaimer: Auto-generated by preflight-learning-path skill. Do not edit manually.
+notice: To regenerate, re-run the skill from the relevant pause.
+path_dir: {path_dir}
+---
+```
+
+---
+
+## Deep references
+
+| Topic | Doc |
+|---|---|
+| Author routing + readiness | [reference-checks.md](reference-checks.md) |
+| Claim-check (product facts) | [../review-learning-path/claim-check.md](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md) (pointer: [claim-check.md](claim-check.md)) |
+| Prereqs + Playwright + optional smoke | [author-testing.md](author-testing.md) |
+| Frontend testid PR | [frontend-selector-pr.md](frontend-selector-pr.md) |
+| Shared static checklists + finding routing | [../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md) |
+| Learning Hub structure | [../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md](../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md) |
+| Comment voice (review-level bar) | [../review-learning-path/comment-style.md](../review-learning-path/comment-style.md) |
+| Reviewer workflow (mirror) | [../review-learning-path/SKILL.md](../review-learning-path/SKILL.md) |
+| `website.yaml` | [docs/website-yaml-reference.md](../../../docs/website-yaml-reference.md) |
+| Single-repo LP workflows | [learning-path-workflows/workflows.md](../../learning-path-workflows/workflows.md) |
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/author-testing.md b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/author-testing.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..29306658f
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/author-testing.md
@@ -0,0 +1,144 @@
+# Author testing (preflight)
+
+Live-test helpers for [preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md](SKILL.md).
+
+Aligns with the five-phase [review-learning-path](../review-learning-path/SKILL.md) live path, lighter for authors: Playwright DOM is required; Block Editor is opt-in. Fits the hard author flow: pause for login, then smoke choice; do not quiz between DOM milestones.
+
+---
+
+## Prerequisites
+
+Confirm during identify (quietly unless blocked). Remind in the slash-command first message.
+
+| Need | Required when | Why | How to verify / fix |
+|---|---|---|---|
+| `interactive-tutorials` checkout with `{slug}-lj/` | Always | Package under test | Path on disk / current branch |
+| **Playwright MCP** enabled (`user-playwright`) | Live path (default for new/conversion interactive) | Agent DOM checks | Identify: list or call Playwright MCP tools. If missing or broken: follow [If Playwright MCP is missing or broken](#if-playwright-mcp-is-missing-or-broken) |
+| Okta login in the **Playwright** browser to `{learn_host}` (default `learn.grafana.net`) | Before Playwright DOM loop | MCP cannot complete SAML alone | Login pause: author logs in, replies `ready` |
+| Pathfinder Block Editor on learn | Only if author chooses `walk-me` | Optional smoke coaching | `{learn_host}/plugins/grafana-pathfinder-app?dev=true` → **?** → Debug → Block Editor → import local JSON |
+| Pathfinder CLI (`grafana-pathfinder-app` built locally) | Nice-to-have | `validate --packages` | Note if missing; do not abort preflight |
+| `gh` auth + write access to the UI repo | Frontend walkthrough only | Frontend testid PR | Check when entering frontend steps |
+| `website` repo in workspace | Optional (conversion) | Read-only legacy compare | Never write |
+
+Same Playwright + Okta role as [learning-path-workflows/workflows.md](../../learning-path-workflows/workflows.md) and `/create-learning-path`.
+
+### If Playwright MCP is missing or broken
+
+Stop before live DOM checks. Do **not** silently skip DOM checks on new/conversion interactive paths. `static-only: <reason>` only when [static-only rules](reference-checks.md#static-only-preflight) allow it.
+
+Diagnose which case applies, then offer help (manual steps always; agent action when possible):
+
+| Case | How you can tell | Offer |
+|---|---|---|
+| **Config missing** from `~/.cursor/mcp.json` (no `playwright` / `@playwright/mcp` entry) | Read `mcp.json`; server absent | Ask: **Want me to add the Playwright MCP config for you?** If yes, merge the standard block below into `mcp.json`. Then ask them to reload MCP and reply when ready so you recheck. |
+| **Needs auth** (`needsAuth` / only `mcp_auth` tool) | `GetMcpTools` / server status | Ask: **Want me to start the Playwright MCP connect flow?** If yes, call `mcp_auth` for `user-playwright` (empty args), wait, recheck. |
+| **Configured but toggled off** in Cursor Settings | Entry exists in `mcp.json`; tools still unavailable | Manual only: Settings → MCP → enable **Playwright**. Agent cannot flip that toggle. |
+| **Configured but broken** | Entry exists; server shows error / tools fail / navigate fails. Common: custom CDP like `http://localhost:9222` with nothing listening | Explain the failure plainly. Offer to replace with the standard `npx @playwright/mcp@latest` block (reply **add playwright mcp** or **fix playwright mcp**). Warn that this overwrites a custom playwright entry; keep other servers. Then reload and recheck. |
+| **Errored / won't start** | Tools missing; logs or STATUS show install/runtime errors | Diagnose (`npx`, Node, network). Offer the standard config; author confirms reload. |
+
+Standard config to add or restore (do not overwrite unrelated servers; for **configured but broken**, replace only the `playwright` server entry after the author agrees):
+
+```json
+{
+  "mcpServers": {
+    "playwright": {
+      "command": "npx",
+      "args": ["@playwright/mcp@latest"]
+    }
+  }
+}
+```
+
+**Blocked checkpoint shape (author-facing):**
+
+> Playwright MCP isn't ready, so I can't run the live DOM checks on this path yet.
+>
+> **Manual setup:** Cursor Settings → MCP → enable **Playwright** (or fix / re-add it), then reload.
+>
+> If Playwright is listed but broken (for example a CDP URL like `localhost:9222` with no browser listening), reply **fix playwright mcp** and I'll switch it to the standard `npx @playwright/mcp@latest` config. You'll still need to reload MCP afterward.
+>
+> **Or:** reply **add playwright mcp** if it is missing entirely.
+>
+> Skipping live checks with `static-only` isn't a fit for new or conversion interactive paths.
+
+Never edit `mcp.json` until the author agrees. Never claim MCP is ready until `GetMcpTools` for `user-playwright` shows usable browser tools (and a quick navigate smoke succeeds when diagnosing "broken").
+
+---
+
+## Two browsers (live path)
+
+| Browser | Who | Purpose |
+|---|---|---|
+| **Playwright** (MCP) | Agent (+ author Okta login) | Required DOM existence checks |
+| **Normal browser** | Author | Optional Block Editor (`walk-me` only) |
+
+DOM exists ≠ Show me / Do it works. Reviewers still run full Block Editor smoke on the PR.
+
+---
+
+## Playwright DOM (required)
+
+After author replies `ready` at the login pause:
+
+For each interactive milestone in scope (path order):
+
+1. Start URL: first `on-page:/path` in milestone blocks, else path manifest `startingLocation` (same as [review milestone start URL](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#milestone-start-url)).
+2. Navigate on `{learn_host}`.
+3. For each `reftarget`, record: `exists` / `missing` / `below-fold` / `state-dependent`.
+4. Do **not** stop for author confirmation between milestones. One short progress line is enough; save the summary for the results menu.
+
+Respect [live testing prerequisites](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#live-testing-prerequisites-phase-2) (stack state, credential-gated UI). Prefer documenting stack gaps over false "missing selector" on the wrong stack.
+
+Apply [selector decision tree](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#selector-decision-tree) when promoting findings after live results.
+
+---
+
+## Block Editor (opt-in)
+
+Authors are expected to dogfood while writing. Do **not** force a per-milestone interrogation by default.
+
+### Prompt (once, after Playwright)
+
+> Have you already smoke-tested this path in Block Editor (Show me / Do it)?
+>
+> Reply **`already-tested: <short notes>`** if yes (stack + anything flaky).
+> Reply **`walk-me`** if you want a guided per-milestone check now.
+> Reply **`skip-smoke`** to continue without recording Block Editor evidence.
+
+### Local import (`walk-me` only)
+
+No PR yet, so **do not** use the PR review tool.
+
+1. Open `{learn_host}/plugins/grafana-pathfinder-app?dev=true` in the normal browser.
+2. **?** → Debug → **Block Editor**.
+3. Import `{path_dir}/{milestone}/content.json` from the local checkout.
+4. Open the derived start URL; run every **Show me** and **Do it**.
+
+### Guided loop prompts
+
+For each scoped milestone:
+
+> **Milestone {i} of {M}: `{milestone-id}`**
+>
+> 1. Import the local `content.json`
+> 2. Open `{derived_start_url}`
+> 3. Run every **Show me** and **Do it**
+>
+> **While you run it, watch for:** wrong highlights, Do it that no-ops or errors, steps that never unlock, and fake step numbers (intro prose or "You'll…" lines counted as steps).
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **pass**, **fail step N -** *what happened*, or **N/A -** *reason*.
+
+Do **not** give the fake-step-number glance its own numbered setup step. Keep it inside the short **While you run it, watch for** line.
+
+Record in state `pathfinder.{milestone-slug}`.
+
+---
+
+## Milestone scope
+
+| `path_type` | Scope |
+|---|---|
+| **new** / **conversion** | Every interactive milestone in path `milestones` |
+| **update** | Touched interactive milestones first; full path on request |
+
+Skip terminal-only / external-CLI milestones for DOM and walk-me unless the author asks.
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/claim-check.md b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/claim-check.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..175874c72
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/claim-check.md
@@ -0,0 +1,7 @@
+# Claim check (preflight pointer)
+
+**Canonical policy:** [../review-learning-path/claim-check.md](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md)
+
+Shared by `/preflight-learning-path` and `/review-learning-path-pr`. Do not maintain a second verdict table here.
+
+When preflight runs the static pass, follow that file. Write the report to `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/{slug}-claim-check.md` and use the **Preflight (results menu)** chat section.
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/frontend-selector-pr.md b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/frontend-selector-pr.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..ee3480d25
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/frontend-selector-pr.md
@@ -0,0 +1,137 @@
+# Frontend selector PR (preflight)
+
+Walk an author through adding a stable `data-testid` upstream when Pathfinder needs one and the DOM has no good selector.
+
+**Canonical example:** [grafana/grafana-cmab-app#1795](https://github.com/grafana/grafana-cmab-app/pull/1795) (Add `data-testid` selectors to Usage page components).
+
+Use that PR as the model for:
+
+- Small, uniform component changes (testids only)
+- Plain kebab-case names matching the product area
+- PR title/body that explains Pathfinder authoring needs stable selectors
+- Friendly, low-ceremony tone
+
+Do not paste the whole #1795 diff. Link it and mirror the pattern. No em dashes in drafted PR bodies.
+
+---
+
+## When to enter
+
+Trigger when live checks show a step needs a durable selector and:
+
+- No `data-testid` / strong semantic attribute exists in the DOM, and
+- Live Playwright or walk-me failed on that step (or the author wants a proactive testid anyway), and
+- They reply **`frontend`** at the results menu or ask after package fixes
+
+At the results menu, treat this as a **needs-frontend** finding: lead with **frontend**, not **fix N**. A package-only `reftarget` tweak is not the real fix. Only offer a temporary weak selector in the guide if the author explicitly asks, and label it as brittle.
+
+If live passed with a justified `:contains()` and no stable selector exists, that stays Internal in review terms. Offer this walkthrough as an optional improvement, not a Fix-before-PR demand, unless Playwright/walk-me failed on that step.
+
+---
+
+## Walkthrough (checkpointed)
+
+These pauses are intentional (author must approve name, repo, draft, push). Announce **Frontend selector (step X of 5)** at each stop. One ask per message. Do not call this "Phase 5" in author chat.
+
+### 1. Confirm the element
+
+From Playwright: URL, visible label, current weak selector, screenshot or DOM snippet if helpful.
+
+Propose a `data-testid` (plain kebab-case, product-area prefix, matching existing testids in that app when present).
+
+> **Frontend selector (step 1 of 5)**
+>
+> **Element that failed live**
+> - Page: {url or page name}
+> - Control: {visible label}
+> - Guide selector today: `{reftarget}`
+>
+> **Proposed `data-testid`:** `{proposed-name}`
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **yes** if that name is fine, or suggest a different kebab-case name.
+
+**Wait for:** author OK on the name (or edits).
+
+### 2. Locate owning source
+
+- Default core UI: `grafana/grafana`
+- Plugin app pages (`/a/grafana-*-app/...`): that plugin repo (as #1795 did for CMAB)
+
+Use workspace clones or GitHub search. Do **not** invent file paths.
+
+> **Frontend selector (step 2 of 5)**
+>
+> Best guess for owning source: `{repo}` ({why}).
+>
+> Next I will confirm the exact file(s). I will not invent paths.
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **yes** if `{repo}` looks right, or name a different repo.
+
+**Wait for:** confirm repo + file(s).
+
+### 3. Draft the change
+
+- Minimal diff: add `data-testid` (and wire through component props if needed)
+- Match local naming conventions
+- Draft PR title + body in the style of #1795 (Pathfinder needs stable selectors; keep scope tight)
+
+Example body shape (adapt; do not copy blindly):
+
+```markdown
+Hey folks, I was building a Pathfinder guide and noticed some UI elements lacked stable selector IDs.
+
+Adds `data-testid` attributes to {components} following the existing kebab-case naming on this page. These selectors are needed for interactive Pathfinder guides, which prefer `data-testid` over text or class-based targeting.
+
+Example pattern: https://github.com/grafana/grafana-cmab-app/pull/1795
+```
+
+> **Frontend selector (step 3 of 5)**
+>
+> Draft change: add `{testid}` on {component summary}. Testids only; no behavior change.
+>
+> **Title:** {title}
+>
+> **Body:** (show draft)
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **yes** to approve, or say what to change.
+
+**Wait for:** author approval of the draft.
+
+### 4. Open the PR
+
+1. Confirm `gh` auth and write access
+2. Create branch, commit, push (**ask before push**)
+3. `gh pr create` with the approved title/body
+4. Follow existing grafana org repo norms; do not change repo visibility
+
+> **Frontend selector (step 4 of 5)**
+>
+> Ready to open the PR in `{repo}` with the approved title/body.
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **yes** to push and create the PR, or **hold** to stop here.
+
+Record `frontend_pr_url` in preflight state after create.
+
+### 5. Update the guide selector
+
+Update the milestone `reftarget` to the new testid **only after** the author confirms the frontend change is available on their test stack.
+
+Until then: keep a temporary justified fallback if needed, and note the upstream PR URL in readiness / Open PR with notes.
+
+> **Frontend selector (step 5 of 5)**
+>
+> Frontend PR: {url}
+>
+> When `{testid}` is on your test stack, we can update `{milestone}` to `[data-testid="{testid}"]`. We should not change the guide before that lands.
+>
+> **Your turn:** Reply **update guide** when the testid is available, or **done** to leave the guide as-is for now.
+
+---
+
+## Anti-patterns
+
+- Giant refactors or drive-by UI changes in the testid PR
+- Inventing component paths
+- Updating guide JSON to a testid that is not on the test stack yet without saying so
+- Treating a missing upstream testid as something to "fix" only inside `interactive-tutorials` when the DOM has no stable hook
+- Offering bare **fix N** at the results menu as if a guide edit adds the testid
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/reference-checks.md b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/reference-checks.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..bb1a651af
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/reference-checks.md
@@ -0,0 +1,215 @@
+# Reference checks (preflight-learning-path)
+
+Author-side routing and readiness for [preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md](SKILL.md).
+
+**Shared checklists (source of truth):** [../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md) and [../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md](../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md). Run every checklist the five-phase review coach runs in Phase 1.
+
+**Publishing model (PR [#416](https://github.com/grafana/interactive-tutorials/pull/416)):** Single-repo packages in `interactive-tutorials`. Metadata in package `website.yaml`; prose in `content.json`. Website repo is read-only for conversion. Never plan companion website / `pathfinder_data` / shortcode work.
+
+**Voice bar:** Same severity bar as review [comment-style.md](../review-learning-path/comment-style.md) (review-level only in chat). No em dashes. Prefer everyday words in chat (see [Author-facing findings](#author-facing-findings) and [Voice](SKILL.md#voice-author-facing)).
+
+---
+
+## Author-facing findings
+
+Use this shape for the **one results menu** after live (or after allowed static-only). Do **not** open with a "What this check is" primer. Match [Voice](SKILL.md#voice-author-facing).
+
+1. **Friendly outcome line** (e.g. "almost ready, with 3 copy fixes first"). Keep gate labels in the readiness file; chat can stay plainer.
+2. **What we checked** — short bullets in plain language (product claims vs docs, UI selectors on `{stack}`, Block Editor smoke choice).
+3. **Numbered findings** — each item: plain problem, why it matters or better wording, then the file/dir in parentheses. Enough context that the author can decide without opening the skill. Treat each item as **package-fixable** or **needs-frontend** (see below).
+4. **Your turn** — offer only actions that can resolve the open items:
+   - **fix all** / **fix N** / combos — only for **package-fixable** items (prose, manifest, `website.yaml`, guide `reftarget` when a better selector already exists in the DOM)
+   - **frontend** — when any open item **needs-frontend** (live failed; no durable `data-testid` / strong semantic selector in the DOM). Do **not** offer **fix N** for that item as if a guide edit alone is the real fix
+   - **done** — open PR / leave for review
+   - **show report**
+5. **Heads-up** — optional stack/testing notes (already-installed plugins, read-only provisioned sources, etc.).
+
+### Package-fixable vs needs-frontend
+
+| Kind | Examples | Results menu offer |
+|---|---|---|
+| **Package-fixable** | Claim-check copy, framing/`depends`, fake in-section steps, false noops, wrong `reftarget` when a stable testid already exists in the DOM | **fix N** / **fix all** |
+| **Needs-frontend** | Playwright or walk-me failed; element has no durable selector in the DOM | **frontend** (primary). Optional: clearly labeled **try temporary selector** only if the author asks for a brittle package workaround. Never present bare **fix N** as the main path for this kind |
+
+When the list mixes both kinds, number everything, but in **Your turn** say which numbers **fix** covers and that **frontend** covers the selector gap (e.g. "fix 2,3 for copy; **frontend** for item 1").
+
+Keep the identify + static work quiet when the path is known. Put the full numbered + fix-choice treatment in the **one results menu** after live (or after allowed static-only).
+
+---
+
+## Finding severity (author)
+
+Map review [finding routing](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md#finding-routing) 1:1:
+
+| Review tier | Author action |
+|---|---|
+| **Post inline** | **Fix before PR** (surface in chat + readiness) |
+| **Internal** | Hide (do not mention in chat or readiness) |
+| **Discard** | Hide |
+
+Do not invent an author-only softer bar. Do not surface "Polish / follow-up" lists.
+
+### Must surface (post-inline examples)
+
+Apply the same five-phase coach rules (cite shared reference-checks; do not soften):
+
+- Playwright / Block Editor runtime fail (when live failed or `walk-me` failed)
+- **Framing milestones** in path `milestones`, or first hands-on `depends` on a framing ID (must be `depends: []`)
+- **Fake steps in sections:** missing bookends outside the section; in-section intro markdown that numbers as a step (e.g. first child "You'll …")
+- **False noops:** learner-action copy with `noop` and no `reftarget`
+- Missing / broken required `website.yaml` identity; Learning Hub structure the author must change
+- Path root / manifest `id` mismatch; Pathfinder CLI validate failure
+- Secrets `doIt: true`; confirmed 404s; conversion prose only in legacy markdown
+- Fragile / wrong selectors when live fails, or stable `data-testid` exists in DOM and the guide uses a weak selector
+- **Claim-check MUST FIX:** Contradicted, Unsupported, or Overstated product facts per shared [claim-check.md](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md) (made-up counts, invented names, docs contradictions)
+
+### Never surface
+
+Wording polish, justified `:contains()` when live passed, CODEOWNERS reminders, audit noise, selector polish when live passed, landing screenshot notes, milestone-count guidelines.
+
+---
+
+## Checklists to run (Phase 1)
+
+Apply every section from [../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md](../review-learning-path/reference-checks.md):
+
+- Milestone `content.json` checks
+- Section intro markdown numbered as a step
+- Framing milestones / framing vs not framing
+- Path root `content.json`
+- Learning Hub structure + [learning-hub-standards.md](../review-learning-path/learning-hub-standards.md)
+- `website.yaml`
+- Valid manifests (CLI)
+- Targeting / recommender
+- Supplementary content
+- Legacy website source (conversion, read-only)
+- noop and non-interactive steps
+- CODEOWNERS (discard for author chat)
+
+Then run shared [claim-check.md](../review-learning-path/claim-check.md) across path root + milestone prose. Route Contradicted / Unsupported / Overstated as Fix before PR. Hide Supported from chat. Author-decides items may appear in readiness as open questions.
+
+Tag each finding; keep only post-inline for author-facing output.
+
+---
+
+## Path type
+
+Infer from branch diff, directory age, and legacy website source. Record in `{slug}.json` → `path_type`.
+
+| Type | Signals | Live emphasis |
+|---|---|---|
+| **new** | New `{slug}-lj/`; no legacy website folder | Full Playwright; `website.yaml` + path root completeness |
+| **conversion** | Built via `/build-interactive-lj`; prose-heavy | Legacy prose captured in package; Playwright full path |
+| **update** | Changes existing package only | Touched interactive milestones first |
+
+---
+
+## Static-only preflight
+
+`static-only: <reason>` at the **login / stack pause** skips Playwright and smoke (jump to the results menu).
+
+**Precedence (evaluate in order; first match wins):**
+
+1. **Bare `static-only` (no reason)** → always **reject**.
+2. **`path_type` is `new` or `conversion` and the path has interactive milestones** → always **reject**, even if the author cites "no stack access" or "practice run." Playwright is mandatory here.
+3. **`path_type` is `update` and the change touches only markdown / `website.yaml` (no interactive selector work)** → **allow** with a non-empty reason. Cap readiness (never **Ready for PR** if interactive milestones exist and were not live-tested).
+4. **Practice run / no stack access on `update` only** → **allow** with a non-empty reason. Cap readiness the same way.
+5. Anything else → **reject** and ask for a clearer reason or proceed with live checks.
+
+| Situation | Allowed? |
+|---|---|
+| Bare `static-only` | **No** |
+| **new** / **conversion** with interactive milestones (any reason, including no stack) | **No** |
+| **update** touching only markdown / `website.yaml` | Yes, with reason |
+| **update** practice / no stack access | Yes, with reason (caps readiness) |
+
+Record `waive_live_testing` + `static_only_reason` only when allowed.
+
+When live was skipped or incomplete, readiness must include **Not live-tested** (interactive path `milestones` minus recorded Playwright results). Never recommend **Ready for PR** for new/conversion interactive when Playwright was waived.
+
+---
+
+## Readiness gate
+
+Recommend **Ready for PR** only when all are true:
+
+1. Zero open **Fix before PR** (post-inline) items
+2. Pathfinder CLI validate passed, or CLI unavailable was noted and no other blockers
+3. Playwright: no unexplained **missing** selectors on claimed-tested milestones (or documented stack prerequisite)
+4. Block Editor: `already-tested` or successful `walk-me` (not `skip-smoke`) for new/conversion interactive, **or** author accepts **Open PR with notes**
+5. `git status` clean of audit-guide artifacts under `{path_dir}`
+6. Not `waive_live_testing` on new/conversion interactive (or outcome is **Open PR with notes**)
+
+| Outcome | When |
+|---|---|
+| **Ready for PR** | Gate conditions met |
+| **Fix then re-preflight** | Open post-inline items or Playwright/walk-me failures |
+| **Open PR with notes** | Package mergeable but smoke skipped, or fresh-stack retest notes for the reviewer |
+
+---
+
+## PR opener checklist
+
+Include in `{slug}-readiness.md`:
+
+- [ ] Path `{path_dir}` validates with Pathfinder CLI (or CLI unavailable noted)
+- [ ] First hands-on milestone `depends: []`
+- [ ] No framing IDs in path `manifest.json` `milestones`
+- [ ] `schemaVersion: "1.1.0"` or omitted on milestone `content.json`
+- [ ] Playwright DOM checked for scoped interactive milestones
+- [ ] Block Editor: already-tested notes, walk-me results, or skip noted for reviewer
+- [ ] Path and milestone `website.yaml` complete
+- [ ] **Not live-tested** section in PR description if any interactive milestone skipped Playwright
+- [ ] Single PR in `interactive-tutorials` only (no companion website PR)
+
+---
+
+## State file schema
+
+Path: `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/{slug}.json`
+
+```json
+{
+  "path_dir": "monitor-azure-resources-lj",
+  "slug": "monitor-azure-resources-lj",
+  "website_slug": "monitor-azure-resources",
+  "path_type": "conversion",
+  "branch": "docs/my-path",
+  "head_commit": "abc123",
+  "learn_host": "learn.grafana.net",
+  "stack_state": "learn.grafana.net shared",
+  "waive_live_testing": false,
+  "static_only_reason": null,
+  "smoke_mode": null,
+  "smoke_notes": null,
+  "pre_review_assets": {},
+  "checkpoint": "login",
+  "status": "in_progress",
+  "readiness": null,
+  "playwright": {},
+  "pathfinder": {},
+  "frontend_pr_url": null
+}
+```
+
+| Field | Notes |
+|---|---|
+| `smoke_mode` | `already-tested` \| `walk-me` \| `skip-smoke` \| null |
+| `smoke_notes` | Author notes for already-tested / skip |
+| `pathfinder` | Only when `walk-me`; keys = milestone slug |
+| `playwright` | DOM results per milestone |
+| `checkpoint` | Named gate (required). One of: `identify` \| `login` \| `dom` \| `smoke` \| `results` \| `package_fixes` \| `frontend`. Persist at every gate per [SKILL.md](SKILL.md). Do **not** use integer phase 0–5. |
+| `status` | `in_progress` \| `blocked` \| `complete` |
+| `readiness` | `Ready for PR` \| `Fix then re-preflight` \| `Open PR with notes` |
+
+Legacy state files with numeric `phase` are invalid for resume: ask **start fresh**, or map once (`0`→`identify`, `1`→`login`, `2`→`dom`, `3`→`results`, `4`→`package_fixes`, `5`→`frontend`) then rewrite `checkpoint` and drop `phase`.
+
+---
+
+## Pathfinder CLI validate
+
+```bash
+node {pathfinder-app}/dist/cli/cli/index.js validate --packages {path_dir}
+```
+
+CLI failure → Fix before PR. CLI missing → note in readiness; do not abort the whole preflight.
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md b/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md
index 459d29114..0154c9571 100644
--- a/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md
+++ b/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md
@@ -21,9 +21,9 @@ Help a **human reviewer** work through a `{slug}-lj/` pull request in **five pha
 
 **Skill memory:** State lives in `.cursor/pr-review-state/` (gitignored). Phase 1 dispatches [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md), which writes `{milestone}/assets/` on the PR branch. See [Commit safety](#commit-safety).
 
-**Routing:** [reference-checks.md](reference-checks.md) · [comment-style.md](comment-style.md) · [learning-hub-standards.md](learning-hub-standards.md) · [github-review.md](github-review.md)
+**Routing:** [reference-checks.md](reference-checks.md) · [claim-check.md](claim-check.md) · [comment-style.md](comment-style.md) · [learning-hub-standards.md](learning-hub-standards.md) · [github-review.md](github-review.md)
 
-**Related:** [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md) · [review-guide-pr.mdc](../../review-guide-pr.mdc)
+**Related:** [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md) · [review-guide-pr.mdc](../../review-guide-pr.mdc) · [preflight-learning-path](../preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md) (author pre-PR mirror)
 
 ---
 
@@ -148,7 +148,7 @@ If `.cursor/pr-review-state/pr-{n}.json` exists:
 
 ## Phase 1: Static pass
 
-**Goal:** Audit every milestone + path consistency + Learning Hub checks. Output: **internal workbook only**.
+**Goal:** Audit every milestone + path consistency + Learning Hub checks + shared [claim-check](claim-check.md). Output: **internal workbook only**.
 
 Combines the former Phases 1–2 and workbook write.
 
@@ -162,15 +162,16 @@ Combines the former Phases 1–2 and workbook write.
 
 1. Snapshot `pre_review_assets`; dispatch [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md) per milestone (parallel OK).
 2. Walk all [reference-checks.md](reference-checks.md) checklists + [learning-hub-standards.md](learning-hub-standards.md).
-3. **Always scan** for [section intro markdown that may number as a step](reference-checks.md#section-intro-markdown-numbered-as-step) and [false noops](reference-checks.md#noop-and-non-interactive-steps). Put matches under **Verify in Block Editor**.
+3. **Always scan** for [section intro markdown that may number as a step](reference-checks.md#section-intro-markdown-numbered-as-a-step) and [false noops](reference-checks.md#noop-and-non-interactive-steps). Put matches under **Verify in Block Editor**.
 4. Run Pathfinder CLI validate if available.
-5. Tag every finding with [finding routing](reference-checks.md#finding-routing): **post inline**, **internal**, or **discard**.
-6. Write `pr-{n}-findings.md` — header: *"Reviewer workbook — internal only. Do not paste to PR."*
+5. Run the shared [claim-check](claim-check.md) pass. Write `pr-{n}-claim-check.md`. Route Contradicted / Unsupported / Overstated as **post inline** (same bar as preflight). Do not edit package JSON here.
+6. Tag every finding with [finding routing](reference-checks.md#finding-routing): **post inline**, **internal**, or **discard**.
+7. Write `pr-{n}-findings.md` — header: *"Reviewer workbook — internal only. Do not paste to PR."*
    - **Verify in Block Editor** — items that need live test to confirm (include section-intro markdown and false-noop candidates)
-   - **Post inline if confirmed** — static compliance issues (broken depends, id mismatch, CLI fail)
+   - **Post inline if confirmed** — static compliance issues (broken depends, id mismatch, CLI fail) and claim-check MUST FIX items
    - **Internal** — nits, LH editorial, selector polish, `website.yaml` gaps
-7. Mandatory audit cleanup; verify `git status`.
-8. **Do not** cite rule numbers or blocking counts in chat.
+8. Mandatory audit cleanup; verify `git status`.
+9. **Do not** cite rule numbers or blocking counts in chat.
 
 ### Checkpoint
 
@@ -399,6 +400,7 @@ Not a numbered phase. New review cycle for major author pushes. Use REST inline
 |---|---|---|
 | `pr-{n}.json` | 0+ | State ([schema](github-review.md#state-file-schema)) |
 | `pr-{n}-findings.md` | 1 | **Internal workbook** — never paste to author |
+| `pr-{n}-claim-check.md` | 1 | Shared claim-check report ([claim-check.md](claim-check.md)) |
 | `pr-{n}-review-body.md` | 3 → 4 | Final summary for GitHub submit |
 
 Workbook frontmatter:
@@ -418,6 +420,7 @@ pr_number: {n}
 | Topic | Doc |
 |---|---|
 | Finding routing + checklists | [reference-checks.md](reference-checks.md) |
+| Claim-check (shared with preflight) | [claim-check.md](claim-check.md) |
 | Comment voice + summary | [comment-style.md](comment-style.md) |
 | Learning Hub checks (workbook) | [learning-hub-standards.md](learning-hub-standards.md) |
 | GitHub GraphQL | [github-review.md](github-review.md) |
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/claim-check.md b/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/claim-check.md
new file mode 100644
index 000000000..9b56af5b7
--- /dev/null
+++ b/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/claim-check.md
@@ -0,0 +1,133 @@
+# Claim check (shared learning-path policy)
+
+Adversarial factual check for Pathfinder learning path packages. Adapted from the Learning Hub claim-check skill and the MUST FIX bar in journey audit reports. Goal: catch invented product facts, not Hugo slide structure.
+
+**Canonical policy for both** [review-learning-path](SKILL.md) and [preflight-learning-path](../preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md). Do not fork a second verdict table. Preflight keeps a thin pointer at `../preflight-learning-path/claim-check.md` that redirects here.
+
+**When to run:** During the static pass, after audit-guide and path / Learning Hub checks, before the live gate.
+
+**Independence:** Prefer a fresh agent pass that did not author the package prose. Default stance: unproven. A claim is flagged unless a source plainly supports it.
+
+---
+
+## Scope (path package)
+
+Read all prose that learners see:
+
+- Path root `content.json` markdown blocks
+- Every milestone `content.json` markdown (including framing dirs not in path `milestones`, if present)
+- Interactive step `content` / tooltips that state product facts (skip pure click instructions)
+- Path and milestone `website.yaml` `description` / CTA copy when it asserts product behavior
+
+Skip: pure navigation instructions ("Click **Save**"), structural Pathfinder rules, and restatements of UI chrome with no product claim.
+
+Website repo (when in workspace) is **read-only** for sources (`content/docs/...`). Do not require a companion website PR.
+
+---
+
+## What counts as a claim
+
+Falsifiable statements about the product, including:
+
+- What a feature does or does not do
+- Feature / product / alert / dashboard names
+- Versions, defaults, limits, prerequisites, platform availability
+- Absolutes and quantifiers (only, never, all, every, must, N dashboards, N alerts)
+- Comparisons that rank or prescribe one Grafana capability over another
+
+### Not claims
+
+- "In this milestone you will…" framing
+- UI click paths without a product assertion
+- Learning Hub boilerplate that matches standards verbatim
+
+---
+
+## Procedure
+
+1. Extract claims (batch by milestone; include path root).
+2. For each claim, find a source: local `website` docs first, then WebFetch to live grafana.com docs. No source → **Unsupported**.
+3. Open the source; quote the supporting or contradicting line.
+4. Verdict (see below). Sweep phrase + category across the whole package so the same error is one finding with multiple locations.
+5. Write the report (path depends on caller; see below).
+
+Do not edit package JSON during the claim check. Fixes wait for author request (preflight) or reviewer post approval (review).
+
+---
+
+## Verdicts
+
+| Verdict | Meaning | Shared routing |
+|---|---|---|
+| **Supported** | Source plainly states the claim | Hide (optional Supported list in the report only) |
+| **Contradicted** | Source says something different | Review-level: **post inline** / Fix before PR |
+| **Unsupported** | No source, or source does not address it | Review-level: **post inline** / Fix before PR |
+| **Overstated** | Source supports a weaker version; claim adds absolute/superlative/framing | Review-level: **post inline** / Fix before PR |
+| **Author decides** | Product-truth call a human must make | Workbook / readiness open question; do not auto-edit |
+
+Only Contradicted / Unsupported / Overstated count toward review-level findings (dedupe by root cause). Soft style nits stay Internal / out of author chat.
+
+---
+
+## Catches that matter (linter cannot)
+
+1. Made-up facts
+2. Invented terms / alert names / dashboard names
+3. Overstatements (counts, "zero impact," "most/all/every")
+4. Competitive or prescriptive framing without a source
+5. Pre-GA / preview features taught as GA
+
+---
+
+## Report paths
+
+| Caller | Report file |
+|---|---|
+| **preflight** | `.cursor/lp-preflight-state/{slug}-claim-check.md` |
+| **review** | `.cursor/pr-review-state/pr-{n}-claim-check.md` |
+
+```markdown
+---
+disclaimer: Auto-generated by learning-path claim-check. Do not edit manually.
+path_dir: {path_dir}
+---
+
+# Claim check: {path_dir}
+
+**Claims checked: N | Supported: N | Contradicted: N | Unsupported: N | Overstated: N**
+
+## MUST FIX (review-level)
+
+### Contradicted
+1. `{file}` - {claim}. Source: {quote or URL}. Fix: {one line}.
+
+### Unsupported
+…
+
+### Overstated
+…
+
+## Author decides
+…
+
+## Sources used
+…
+```
+
+MUST FIX first, then author-decides. Do not dump Supported claims into chat. No em dashes in the report body.
+
+---
+
+## Caller-specific chat
+
+### Preflight (results menu)
+
+Merge MUST FIX items into the findings that feed the **one results menu** (dedupe). Use plain language (problem + why + file). Do **not** put verdict labels like "Contradicted" in author bullets. Do not open with a "What this check is" primer.
+
+Offer **fix all** / **fix N** / combos for package-fixable claim items per [preflight Author-facing findings](../preflight-learning-path/reference-checks.md#author-facing-findings).
+
+If none, say the claim check found no contradicted or unsupported product facts (as part of What we checked / clean results).
+
+### Review (Phase 1 workbook)
+
+Merge MUST FIX items into `pr-{n}-findings.md` under **Post inline if confirmed** (or **Verify in Block Editor** when live confirmation is needed). Tag **post inline** per [finding routing](reference-checks.md#finding-routing). Do not dump Supported into chat. Author-decides may stay Internal or become a short open question in the draft summary.
diff --git a/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/reference-checks.md b/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/reference-checks.md
index d76397d0b..9ea314375 100644
--- a/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/reference-checks.md
+++ b/.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/reference-checks.md
@@ -69,7 +69,7 @@ Run via [audit-guide](../audit-guide/SKILL.md) plus confirm every row:
 | `schemaVersion` not `"1.1.0"` when present | post inline |
 | Markdown `##` / `###` for grouping | internal |
 | Section bookends missing (rule 14) — no intro/summary **around** the section | **post inline** |
-| In-section intro markdown that may number as a step | **post inline** (see [section intro markdown](#section-intro-markdown-numbered-as-step)). Prefer bookends **outside** the section per rule 14. |
+| In-section intro markdown that may number as a step | **post inline** (see [section intro markdown](#section-intro-markdown-numbered-as-a-step)). Prefer bookends **outside** the section per rule 14. |
 | Missing `exists-reftarget`, `navmenu-open` | internal until live fails |
 | Missing `on-page` | internal until live fails |
 | `lazyRender` missing on virtualized targets | internal until live fails |
@@ -209,13 +209,22 @@ Prose not captured in package on conversion → **post inline**. Front matter ma
 
 `static-only: <reason>` at end of Phase 1 skips Phase 2.
 
+**Precedence (evaluate in order; first match wins):**
+
+1. **Bare `static-only` (no reason)** → always **reject**.
+2. **`pr_type` is `new` or `conversion` and the path has interactive milestones** → always **reject**, even if the reviewer cites "practice" or "no stack." Playwright is mandatory here.
+3. **`pr_type` is `update` with only markdown / `website.yaml` changes** → **allow** with a non-empty reason.
+4. **Practice / archaeology on a merged PR** → **allow** with a non-empty reason (never suggest APPROVE when waived).
+5. Anything else → **reject**.
+
 | Situation | Allowed? |
 |---|---|
-| **new** / **conversion** with interactive milestones | **No** |
+| Bare `static-only` | **No** |
+| **new** / **conversion** with interactive milestones (any reason) | **No** |
 | **update** with only markdown / `website.yaml` | Yes, with reason |
 | Practice / archaeology on merged PR | Yes, with reason |
 
-Record `waive_live_testing: true` and `static_only_reason`. Never suggest APPROVE when waived.
+Record `waive_live_testing: true` and `static_only_reason` only when allowed. Never suggest APPROVE when waived.
 
 ### Not live-tested disclosure (required)
 
diff --git a/AGENTS.md b/AGENTS.md
index 7eb80c276..0ce891391 100644
--- a/AGENTS.md
+++ b/AGENTS.md
@@ -42,6 +42,7 @@ Full reference documentation lives in `docs/`. AI-oriented references live in `.
 | Update/modify an existing guide | [update-guide](.cursor/skills/update-guide/SKILL.md) skill | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc), [review-guide-pr.mdc](.cursor/review-guide-pr.mdc) |
 | Review a guide PR | [review-guide-pr.mdc](.cursor/review-guide-pr.mdc) | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc), [edge-cases-and-troubleshooting.mdc](.cursor/edge-cases-and-troubleshooting.mdc), `docs/` |
 | Review a learning path PR | [/review-learning-path-pr](.cursor/commands/review-learning-path-pr.md) | [review-learning-path](.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md), [audit-guide](.cursor/skills/audit-guide/SKILL.md), [review-guide-pr.mdc](.cursor/review-guide-pr.mdc) |
+| Preflight a learning path (before PR) | [/preflight-learning-path](.cursor/commands/preflight-learning-path.md) | [preflight-learning-path](.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md), [audit-guide](.cursor/skills/audit-guide/SKILL.md), [review-learning-path](.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md) |
 | Decision trees & code smells | [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc) | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), `docs/` |
 | Create new guide | `/new` command | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [complete-example-tutorial.mdc](.cursor/complete-example-tutorial.mdc) |
 | Validate guide | `/lint`, `/check`, `/attack` commands | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc) |
@@ -82,4 +83,5 @@ Full reference documentation lives in `docs/`. AI-oriented references live in `.
 | [/check](.cursor/commands/check.md) | Check guide quality against best practices |
 | [/attack](.cursor/commands/attack.md) | Find issues by simulating confused users |
 | [/review-learning-path-pr](.cursor/commands/review-learning-path-pr.md) | Full learning path PR review (audit, consistency, Playwright, Pathfinder, GitHub submit) |
+| [/preflight-learning-path](.cursor/commands/preflight-learning-path.md) | Author pre-PR self-review for a learning path (mirrors review checks + shared claim-check, then optional fixes) |
 | [/build-interactive-lj](.cursor/commands/build-interactive-lj/README.md) | Multi-phase learning journey builder |
diff --git a/CLAUDE.md b/CLAUDE.md
index d37dbb087..7971ce87c 100644
--- a/CLAUDE.md
+++ b/CLAUDE.md
@@ -17,6 +17,7 @@ When a doc here disagrees with the upstream schema, the schema wins. Authoritati
 | Update / modify an existing guide | [update-guide](.cursor/skills/update-guide/SKILL.md) skill | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc), [review-guide-pr.mdc](.cursor/review-guide-pr.mdc) |
 | Review a guide PR | [.cursor/review-guide-pr.mdc](.cursor/review-guide-pr.mdc) | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc), [edge-cases-and-troubleshooting.mdc](.cursor/edge-cases-and-troubleshooting.mdc) |
 | Review a learning path PR | [/review-learning-path-pr](.cursor/commands/review-learning-path-pr.md) | [review-learning-path](.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md), [audit-guide](.cursor/skills/audit-guide/SKILL.md) |
+| Preflight a learning path (before PR) | [/preflight-learning-path](.cursor/commands/preflight-learning-path.md) | [preflight-learning-path](.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md), [audit-guide](.cursor/skills/audit-guide/SKILL.md), [review-learning-path](.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md) |
 | Decision trees & code smells | [.cursor/best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc) | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [docs/](docs/) |
 | Create a new guide | [/new](.cursor/commands/new.md) command | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [complete-example-tutorial.mdc](.cursor/complete-example-tutorial.mdc) |
 | Validate a guide | [/lint](.cursor/commands/lint.md), [/check](.cursor/commands/check.md), [/attack](.cursor/commands/attack.md) | [authoring-guide.mdc](.cursor/authoring-guide.mdc), [best-practices.mdc](.cursor/best-practices.mdc) |
@@ -45,6 +46,8 @@ Multi-phase workflow skills with their own `SKILL.md` files. Skills write interm
 - [.cursor/skills/audit-guide/](.cursor/skills/audit-guide/SKILL.md) — comprehensive read-only audit (structural + semantic + adversarial) producing one prioritised report
 - [.cursor/skills/update-guide/](.cursor/skills/update-guide/SKILL.md) — modify an existing guide with a planning checkpoint, review pass, and CLI-validated rollback
 - [.cursor/skills/migrate-guide/](.cursor/skills/migrate-guide/SKILL.md) — migrate a guide or learning path to the Pathfinder package format
+- [.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/](.cursor/skills/review-learning-path/SKILL.md) — human-guided learning path PR review (five-phase coach)
+- [.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/](.cursor/skills/preflight-learning-path/SKILL.md) — author pre-PR self-review for a learning path
 
 ## Shared Content