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name: decomposing-tasks description: Break down large tasks into smaller, actionable items. Use when planning sprints, estimating work, or creating implementation plans. Covers task breakdown strategies. allowed-tools: Read, Write, Glob, Grep

Decomposing Tasks

Workflows

• Understand Scope: What is the full scope of work?
• Identify Components: What are the major pieces?
• Break Down: Split into 1-2 day tasks
• Order: Define dependencies and sequence
• Validate: Can each task be demo'd/tested?

Task Size Guidelines

Too Big

• "Build the authentication system"
• Cannot be completed in 1-2 days
• Cannot be tested independently

Just Right

• "Create login API endpoint"
• "Add password validation"
• "Implement JWT token generation"

Too Small

• "Add semicolon"
• "Rename variable"
• Not worth tracking separately

Decomposition Strategies

Vertical Slicing

Cut through all layers for one feature.

CopyFeature: User Login
├── API endpoint (POST /login)
├── Input validation
├── Database query
├── JWT generation
├── Error handling
└── Integration test

Horizontal Slicing

Complete one layer at a time.

CopyDatabase Layer
├── Users table
├── Sessions table
└── Indexes

API Layer
├── Login endpoint
├── Logout endpoint
└── Refresh endpoint

SPIDR Method

• Spike: Research/investigation task
• Path: Main flow implementation
• Interface: API/UI contract
• Data: Storage and schemas
• Rules: Business logic and validation

Task Template

Copy## Task: [Title]

**Description**: [What needs to be done]

**Acceptance Criteria**:
- [ ] [Criterion 1]
- [ ] [Criterion 2]

**Dependencies**: [What must be done first]

**Estimate**: [X hours/points]

Definition of Done

Every task should have:

• Code complete and reviewed
• Tests written and passing
• Documentation updated
• Deployed to staging