writing-plans

Implementation plans bridge the gap between vague software specifications and concrete code by mapping tasks to specific files, required tests, and documentation updates. This decomposition provides actionable steps for engineering teams.

The best way to decompose multi-step engineering tasks is to scope plans by outlining exact files to touch, tests to write, and documentation to check with clear task boundaries. This ensures verifiable milestones before development begins.

Applying DRY, YAGNI, and TDD principles to implementation plans keeps them lean and verifiable by enforcing strict guidance on task boundaries. This prevents over-engineering and ensures tests drive the development of touched files.

Yes, you can generate a plan detailing exact code edits and documentation updates for a new feature. The plan maps requirements directly to touched files and necessary tests, creating a comprehensive milestone document before coding.

You should create an implementation plan when starting a new feature or multi-step task to bridge requirements and code. It enforces frequent commits and clear task boundaries, ensuring verifiable milestones before development begins.