mikado-method

Guide developers through the Mikado Method for incremental refactoring.

1|Updated Apr 7, 2026

Search Tags:#refactoring #software design #dependency management #code stability #Mikado Method

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/bsene/approvalsTypescript --skill mikado-method

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: mikado-method
Source: https://github.com/bsene/approvalsTypescript/tree/main/.agents/skills/mikado-method
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/bsene/approvalsTypescript --skill mikado-method

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps developers manage large refactoring tasks, ensuring safety and stability throughout the process.

Core Features & Use Cases

Mikado Loop Enforcement: Guides developers through the full Mikado loop: goal, naive attempt, map prerequisites, revert, implement leaves, commit, repeat.
Visual Dependency Mapping: Provides a visual representation of dependencies for better understanding and safer refactoring.
Incremental Improvement: Enables small, manageable changes while maintaining codebase stability.

Quick Start

Activate the Mikado Method skill when you are about to refactor a large section of code. Begin by setting a clear goal and follow the Mikado loop to refactor incrementally.

Frequently Asked Questions about mikado-method

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I safely refactor large sections of legacy code?▼

Refactor legacy code safely by applying the Mikado Method to manage incremental changes. This approach enforces a structured loop of setting goals, mapping dependencies, and implementing leaves to maintain codebase stability throughout the process.

What is the Mikado Method for software refactoring?▼

The Mikado Method is an incremental refactoring technique that guides developers through a structured loop. It involves setting a goal, attempting a naive change, mapping prerequisites, reverting, and implementing leaves to ensure stable codebase improvements.

How do I map code dependencies before starting a major refactoring task?▼

Map code dependencies by utilizing the Mikado Method's visual dependency mapping feature. This provides a clear representation of structural prerequisites, allowing you to understand and navigate complex relationships before implementing changes.

Can I use this incremental refactoring approach for managing large codebases?▼

Yes, this incremental refactoring approach is specifically suitable for managing large codebases. It breaks down massive refactoring tasks into small, manageable changes while enforcing a strict loop to maintain overall codebase stability.

What is the best way to handle code stability during big refactoring tasks?▼

Handle code stability during big refactoring tasks by enforcing the Mikado Loop. This method ensures you revert naive attempts, implement prerequisite leaves first, and commit incremental improvements, preventing widespread codebase breakage.

When should I not use the Mikado Method for refactoring?▼

You should avoid the Mikado Method for simple, isolated changes that lack deep dependencies. It is designed for large, complex refactoring tasks where mapping prerequisites and executing incremental changes are necessary to maintain stability.