one-three-one-rule

Use the 1-3-1 format: state one problem sentence, present exactly three distinct options with pros and cons each, then give one recommendation with a definition of done and an implementation plan. This keeps proposals concise and forwardable to stakeholders.

The 1-3-1 rule is a communication framework with one problem statement, three options with trade-offs, and one recommendation. It forces clear problem framing and a direct professional judgment instead of hedging between alternatives.

Use it when a task has multiple viable approaches with meaningful trade-offs, such as architecture, tooling, or migration decisions. Do not use it for simple questions with one obvious answer, debugging sessions, or when the approach is already decided.

This framework requires exactly three options labeled A, B, and C. The options must represent genuinely different strategies with distinct pros and cons, not minor variations of the same approach.

The Definition of Done and Implementation Plan are revised to match the option the user selects. The recommendation section reflects professional judgment, but the actionable sections always align with the chosen path.