hypothesis-tree

Structure complex questions into a hierarchical MECE tree of testable hypotheses.

Updated Nov 28, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/davidsteinberger/dotfiles --skill hypothesis-tree-davidsteinberger
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: hypothesis-tree
Source: https://github.com/davidsteinberger/dotfiles/tree/main/opencode/.config/opencode/skills/hypothesis-tree
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/davidsteinberger/dotfiles --skill hypothesis-tree-davidsteinberger

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you break down ambiguous challenges, complex questions, or product ideas into a structured, MECE (Mutually Exclusive, Collectively Exhaustive) tree of testable hypotheses, ensuring all potential angles are considered.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured Decomposition: Organizes complex problems into a hierarchical tree of hypotheses.
  • MECE Framework: Ensures comprehensive coverage without overlap.
  • Testable Hypotheses: Guides the formulation of specific, falsifiable, and actionable hypotheses.
  • Prioritization: Provides a framework for prioritizing hypotheses based on evidence, effort, and impact.
  • Use Case: When a product manager needs to understand why a new feature has low adoption, they can use this Skill to break down potential reasons (e.g., awareness, usability, value proposition) into specific, testable questions.

Quick Start

Use the hypothesis-tree skill to break down the question "Why is user engagement declining?" into a structured tree of hypotheses.

Frequently Asked Questions about hypothesis-tree

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I break down complex problems into testable hypotheses for product validation?

To break down complex problems into testable hypotheses, structure ambiguous challenges into a hierarchical MECE tree, ensuring comprehensive coverage of potential angles for actionable research and testing plans.

What is the MECE framework for problem decomposition?

The MECE framework for problem decomposition organizes complex questions into mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive branches, ensuring all potential angles are considered without overlap during strategic planning.

How do I structure a hypothesis tree to figure out why a feature has low adoption?

To structure a hypothesis tree for low feature adoption, decompose potential reasons like awareness, usability, and value proposition into specific, falsifiable questions using a MECE framework.

Can I prioritize hypotheses based on effort and impact for strategic planning?

Yes, you can prioritize hypotheses based on evidence, effort, and impact by applying a structured framework that evaluates each testable branch within the hierarchical tree during strategic planning.

When do I need to use a hypothesis tree for decision making?

You need to use a hypothesis tree for decision making when facing ambiguous challenges or complex product ideas that require structuring into a comprehensive, testable format to ensure all potential angles are considered.