writing-plans

Generate executable implementation plans with task decomposition, file mapping, and test plans.

Updated Apr 17, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ccstudentcc/agent-prompts --skill writing-plans-ccstudentcc
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: writing-plans
Source: https://github.com/ccstudentcc/agent-prompts/tree/main/.codex/skills/writing-plans
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ccstudentcc/agent-prompts --skill writing-plans-ccstudentcc

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Write comprehensive implementation plans assuming the engineer has zero context for our codebase and questionable taste. Document everything they need to know: which files to touch for each task, code, testing, docs they might need to check, and how to test it. Provide the whole plan as bite-sized tasks, emphasizing DRY, YAGNI, TDD, and frequent commits.

Assume they are a skilled developer, but know almost nothing about our toolset or problem domain. Assume they don't know good test design very well.

Announce at start: "I'm using the writing-plans skill to create the implementation plan."

Context: This should be run in a dedicated worktree (created by brainstorming skill).

Save plans to: docs/superpowers/plans/YYYY-MM-DD-<feature-name>.md

  • (User preferences for plan location override this default)

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Map out the exact files to create or modify, and assign clear responsibilities for each.
  • Break complex specs into bite-sized, testable tasks that can be implemented in isolation.
  • Provide a repeatable plan structure that guides design, tests, docs, and deployment.

Quick Start

Create a full implementation plan for a feature, detailing required files, tests, and verification steps in bite-sized tasks.

Frequently Asked Questions about writing-plans

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I generate an implementation plan from a software specification?

To generate an implementation plan from a software specification, you map out exact files to modify and break complex specs into bite-sized, testable tasks. This process provides structured task decomposition, file mapping, and documentation.

How does task decomposition work for test-driven development?

Task decomposition for test-driven development works by breaking complex specs into isolated, bite-sized tasks. It emphasizes DRY, YAGNI, and TDD principles, providing clear file responsibilities, required tests, and incremental commit steps.

What is the best way to document implementation plans for developers with no codebase context?

The best way to document implementation plans for developers with no codebase context is to specify exact files to touch, testing procedures, and documentation references. Plans are saved as markdown files detailing bite-sized tasks and verification steps.

Can I use this planning approach for diverse software subsystems?

Yes, you can use this planning approach for diverse software subsystems. It generates comprehensive, executable plans across varied subsystems by applying structured task decomposition, documentation, and test plans.

When do I need a structured implementation plan for software engineering?

You need a structured implementation plan for software engineering when a high-level specification requires detailed task decomposition, file mapping, and testing. It ensures incremental commits and adherence to TDD and DRY principles.

Why does my implementation plan lack test design and documentation steps?

An implementation plan lacks test design and documentation steps when it does not assume zero codebase context. A proper plan addresses this by explicitly detailing required tests, documentation to check, and verification steps for each task.