cat:decompose-task

Break down oversized tasks into dependency-aware subtasks with PLAN.md files.

101|2|Updated Jan 7, 2026

Search Tags:#workflow #planning #dependencies #subagent #subtasks #decompose

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/cowwoc/cat --skill cat-decompose-task

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: cat:decompose-task
Source: https://github.com/cowwoc/cat/tree/main/plugin/skills/decompose-task
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/cowwoc/cat --skill cat-decompose-task

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill breaks down oversized tasks into smaller, manageable subtasks with proper dependency management to prevent context overflow.

Core Features & Use Cases

Decomposition Workflow: analyzes current task scope, identifies logical split points, and creates new task directories with focused PLAN.md files.
Dependency & Parallel Execution: maps dependencies, plans parallel subagent execution, and preserves progress across decompositions.
Progress & Orchestration: updates STATE/PLAN metadata and ensures parent tasks reflect decomposed status.

Quick Start

Use the decompose-task skill to generate subtask plans from a parent task and review the created PLAN.md files.

Frequently Asked Questions about cat:decompose-task

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema

How do I split large tasks into subtasks to prevent context overflow?▼

To prevent context overflow, you can split large tasks into smaller, dependency-aware subtasks using a decomposition workflow that analyzes task scope and generates focused PLAN.md files in new task directories.

What is the best way to map dependencies for parallel subagent execution?▼

Mapping dependencies for parallel subagent execution involves identifying logical split points within the task scope and planning orchestration to preserve progress across decomposed subtasks.

Do I need PLAN.md and STATE.md files to decompose tasks?▼

Yes, decomposing tasks requires access to planning artifacts like PLAN.md and STATE.md to create subtasks, generate new plans, and update parent task metadata with the decomposed status.

How do I preserve progress when breaking down oversized tasks?▼

You preserve progress when breaking down oversized tasks by updating STATE and PLAN metadata during decomposition, ensuring parent tasks reflect the decomposed status and subagent progress data.

When should I not use task decomposition for workflow planning?▼

Task decomposition should not be used when the task scope does not threaten context bounds, as it is specifically designed to apply during planning and execution only when context overflow is imminent.