// Break a PRD into independently-grabbable GitHub issues using tracer-bullet vertical slices. Use when user wants to convert a PRD to issues, create implementation tickets, or break down a PRD into work items.
| name | matt-prd-to-issues |
| description | Break a PRD into independently-grabbable GitHub issues using tracer-bullet vertical slices. Use when user wants to convert a PRD to issues, create implementation tickets, or break down a PRD into work items. |
| agent | matt |
| user-invocable | false |
| metadata | {"pattern":"pipeline"} |
Break a PRD into independently-grabbable GitHub issues using vertical slices (tracer bullets).
Ask the user for the PRD GitHub issue number (or URL).
If the PRD is not already in your context window, fetch it with gh issue view <number> (with comments).
If you have not already explored the codebase, do so to understand the current state of the code.
Break the PRD 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 onesDO NOT create GitHub issues until the user has approved the breakdown in step 4. Creating issues prematurely wastes everyone's time if the slicing is wrong.
Present the proposed breakdown as a numbered list. For each slice, show:
Ask the user:
Iterate until the user approves the breakdown.
For each approved slice, create a GitHub issue using gh issue create. Use the issue body template below.
Create issues in dependency order (blockers first) so you can reference real issue numbers in the "Blocked by" field.
## Parent PRD#
A concise description of this vertical slice. Describe the end-to-end behavior, not layer-by-layer implementation. Reference specific sections of the parent PRD rather than duplicating content.
Or "None - can start immediately" if no blockers.
Reference by number from the parent PRD:
Do NOT close or modify the parent PRD issue.
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