writing-plans

Generate implementation plans with file paths, task breakdowns, and testing steps.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/donellmccoy/ECTSystem --skill writing-plans-donellmccoy
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: writing-plans
Source: https://github.com/donellmccoy/ECTSystem/tree/main/.github/skills/writing-plans
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/donellmccoy/ECTSystem --skill writing-plans-donellmccoy

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill helps teams create thorough, actionable implementation plans before touching code, eliminating ambiguity and rework.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Structured task decomposition for complex features
  • Clear guidance on which files to modify, tests to write, and docs to update
  • Simple, repeatable plan templates to onboard new engineers quickly
  • Use Case: Imagine starting a new feature with multiple interdependent tasks; this skill yields a complete plan you can hand to any developer

Quick Start

Announce at start: I'm using the writing-plans skill to create the implementation plan. Save plans to docs/plans/YYYY-MM-DD-<feature-name>.md

Frequently Asked Questions about writing-plans

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I create an implementation plan for a multi-step coding task?

To create an implementation plan, decompose complex features into structured tasks covering file paths, testing steps, and commit guidelines before writing code. This structured task decomposition eliminates ambiguity and rework.

What is the best way to document onboarding plans for new engineers?

The best way to document onboarding plans is using repeatable plan templates that specify exact file modifications, tests to write, and documentation updates. This yields a complete plan you can hand to any developer.

Do I need a completed spec before generating an implementation plan?

Yes, you need a completed spec before generating an implementation plan. This skill applies to scenarios where a spec exists but code has not yet been written, guiding file changes and testing across repositories.

How should I structure file changes and testing steps in project documentation?

Structure file changes and testing steps in project documentation by generating structured plan artifacts saved as markdown files. These artifacts include specific file paths, task breakdowns, testing steps, and clear commit guidelines.

Can I use this planning approach for features spanning multiple repositories?

Yes, you can use this planning approach for features spanning multiple repositories. It guides file changes, testing steps, and documentation updates across repositories to ensure comprehensive multi-step task coverage.