spec-author

Draft structured markdown specifications from raw tickets with mode-aware interviews.

20|4|Updated May 14, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/crewrig/crewrig --skill spec-author-crewrig
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: spec-author
Source: https://github.com/crewrig/crewrig/tree/main/artifacts/core/skills/spec-author
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/crewrig/crewrig --skill spec-author-crewrig

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill turns a vague request or ticket into a structured specification so teams can align on what needs to be built before design or implementation begins.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Intent qualification: Clarifies what the user actually wants, including scope, constraints, and success criteria.
  • Spec drafting: Produces a single markdown spec file with requirements, scenarios, out-of-scope items, and open questions.
  • Mode-aware interviews: Adjusts the level of questioning for full, intermediate, minimal, or zero-question workflows.
  • Delta specs: Handles review-driven follow-up changes by writing delta specifications instead of rewriting the original.
  • Use case: A product or engineering lead can hand this Skill a feature request and get back a review-ready spec that is ready for downstream implementation.

Quick Start

Ask the spec-author skill to turn this ticket into a draft specification for the current issue and resolve any open questions.

Frequently Asked Questions about spec-author

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I turn a vague feature request ticket into a structured specification?

To turn a vague ticket into a structured specification, use an automated spec drafting tool that clarifies user intent, allocates IDs, and outputs a single markdown file with ordered body sections and YAML frontmatter.

What is a delta spec and when should I use it for issue triage?

A delta spec captures review-driven follow-up changes to an existing specification without rewriting the original document. Use it during issue triage when updating a previously approved spec with new modifications or scope adjustments.

Can I draft a specification without answering open questions during the interview workflow?

Yes, you can draft a specification using a zero-question or minimal-question interview mode. The workflow adjusts its questioning level based on your mode preference, though open-question gating ensures unresolved items are explicitly tracked in the output file.

How do I create a markdown spec file with YAML frontmatter for software requirements?

Creating a markdown spec file with YAML frontmatter involves drafting a structured document that includes requirements, scenarios, out-of-scope items, and open questions. The file must pass best-effort format validation to ensure it is review-ready.

Does spec drafting work for non-trivial tickets before architecture and development?

Yes, spec drafting is designed specifically for non-trivial tickets to qualify requirements before architecture, development, or testing begins. It ensures teams align on scope, constraints, and success criteria prior to downstream implementation.

What are the limitations of automated spec qualification workflows?

Automated spec qualification workflows rely on best-effort format validation and may not capture every nuanced architectural constraint. They function best as a drafting assistant to produce review-ready specifications rather than replacing human architectural review.