story-splitting

Decompose large user stories into INVEST-compliant sub-stories with SPIDR patterns.

1|Updated Nov 29, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/SSiertsema/claude-code-plugins --skill story-splitting-ssiertsema
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: story-splitting
Source: https://github.com/SSiertsema/claude-code-plugins/tree/main/story-splitting/skills/story-splitting
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/SSiertsema/claude-code-plugins --skill story-splitting-ssiertsema

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Decomposes oversized user stories into smaller, INVEST-compliant sub-stories to ensure value delivery and easier planning.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Vertical slicing: each sub-story delivers end-to-end user value.
  • INVEST validation: checks for Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, and Testable criteria.
  • Pattern guidance: leverages SPIDR and Richard Lawrence patterns to justify splits.
  • Diagramming & reporting: provides split diagrams, recommended order, and a post-split INVEST summary for approval.

Quick Start

Render a split proposal for the provided parent story, applying SPIDR or Lawrence patterns to generate 2–4 sub-stories with rationale and a recommended order.

Frequently Asked Questions about story-splitting

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I split large user stories into smaller agile sub-stories?

Splitting large user stories involves decomposing epic-level requirements into 2–4 actionable sub-stories using SPIDR and Richard Lawrence patterns, ensuring each piece delivers independent end-to-end value.

What are the SPIDR and Richard Lawrence patterns for story splitting?

SPIDR and Richard Lawrence patterns are structural guidelines used to decompose oversized user stories. They provide categorized rationales for breaking epics into smaller, INVEST-compliant vertical slices that deliver user value.

How do I verify that split user stories are INVEST-compliant?

You verify split user stories are INVEST-compliant by running post-split checks for Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, and Testable criteria. This validation occurs after generating the initial sub-story proposal.

Can I use story splitting for requirements slicing in product management?

Yes, you can use story splitting for requirements slicing in product management and software delivery contexts. It decomposes oversized epics into smaller, actionable sub-stories to ensure value delivery and easier planning.

How do I sequence sub-stories after splitting an epic?

You sequence sub-stories after splitting an epic by following the recommended order provided in the split proposal. This order is determined after applying splitting patterns and verifying end-to-end value slicing.

What's the best way to visualize vertical slicing for agile requirements?

The best way to visualize vertical slicing is by rendering split diagrams that map the parent story to its sub-stories. This visual report includes the splitting rationale, INVEST summary, and recommended execution order for approval.