| name | to-issues |
| description | Break a plan, spec, or PRD into independently-grabbable issues on the project backlog using tracer-bullet vertical slices. Use when user wants to convert a plan into issues, create implementation tickets, or break down work into issues. |
To Issues
Break a plan into independently-grabbable backlog issues using vertical slices
(tracer bullets).
The backlog backend and triage label vocabulary should have been provided to you
— run /setup-matt-pocock-skills if not.
Process
1. Gather context
Work from whatever is already in the conversation context. If the user passes a
backlog ticket reference (issue number, URL, or path) as an argument, fetch it
from the backlog and read its full body and comments.
2. Explore the codebase (optional)
If you have not already explored the codebase, do so to understand the current
state of the code. Issue titles and descriptions should use the project's domain
glossary vocabulary, and respect ADRs in the area you're touching.
3. Draft vertical slices
Break the plan into tracer bullet issues. Each issue is a thin vertical
slice that cuts through ALL integration layers end-to-end, NOT a horizontal
slice of one layer.
Slices may be 'HITL' or 'AFK'. HITL slices require human interaction, such as an
architectural decision or a design review. AFK slices can be implemented and
merged without human interaction. Prefer AFK over HITL where possible.
- Each slice delivers a narrow but COMPLETE path through every layer (schema, API, UI, tests)
- A completed slice is demoable or verifiable on its own
- Prefer many thin slices over few thick ones
4. Quiz the user
Present the proposed breakdown as a numbered list. For each slice, show:
- Title: short descriptive name
- Type: HITL / AFK
- Blocked by: which other slices (if any) must complete first
- User stories covered: which user stories this addresses (if the source
material has them)
Ask the user:
- Does the granularity feel right? (too coarse / too fine)
- Are the dependency relationships correct?
- Should any slices be merged or split further?
- Are the correct slices marked as HITL and AFK?
Iterate until the user approves the breakdown.
5. Publish the issues to the backlog
For each approved slice, publish a new issue to the backlog. Use the issue body
template below. Apply the needs-triage triage label so each issue enters the
normal triage flow.
Publish issues in dependency order (blockers first) so you can reference real
issue identifiers in the "Blocked by" field.
## Parent
A reference to the parent ticket on the backlog (if the source was a backlog
ticket, otherwise omit this section).
What to build
A concise description of this vertical slice. Describe the end-to-end behavior,
not layer-by-layer implementation.
Acceptance criteria
Blocked by
- A reference to the blocking ticket (if any)
Or "None - can start immediately" if no blockers.
Do NOT close or modify any parent issue.
