Record a structured reasoning step for complex problem-solving.

Use this tool to break down multi-step problems into trackable reasoning steps. Each step captures your current thinking, expected outcome, and planned next action.

WHEN TO USE:

• Multi-step analysis, debugging, or planning tasks

• Tasks requiring systematic exploration of options

• Problems where you need to track confidence or revise earlier thinking

• Exploring multiple solution paths via branching

WORKFLOW:

1. Start with step_number=1, estimate your total steps

2. Describe your thought process, expected outcome, and next action

3. Continue calling for each reasoning step, adjusting estimated_total as needed

4. Use confidence (0-1) when uncertain about conclusions

5. Use revises_step to correct earlier reasoning when you find errors

6. Use branch_from to explore alternative approaches

7. Set is_final_step=true when reasoning is complete

Returns JSON summary with step count, completion status, and next action.