prd-to-tasks

name	prd-to-tasks
description	Break a PRD into independently-grabbable Backlog tasks using tracer-bullet vertical slices. Use when user wants to convert a PRD to tasks, create implementation tickets, or break down a PRD into work items.

PRD to Tasks

Break a PRD into independently-grabbable Backlog tasks using vertical slices (tracer bullets).

Process

1. Locate the PRD

Ask the user for the PRD — it may be a Backlog document, a file in the repo, or pasted inline.

If the PRD is a Backlog document, fetch it with document_view. If it's a file, read it from disk.

2. Explore the codebase (optional)

If you have not already explored the codebase, do so to understand the current state of the code.

3. Draft vertical slices

Break the PRD into tracer bullet tasks. Each task 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 from the PRD this addresses

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. Create the Backlog tasks

For each approved slice, create a task using task_create (consult get_task_creation_guide for structure). Create tasks in dependency order (blockers first) so you can reference them in later tasks.

Each task should include:

• Title: the slice title
• Description: a concise description of the end-to-end behavior (not layer-by-layer implementation). Reference the parent PRD document rather than duplicating content.
• Acceptance criteria: checkable criteria for completion
• Dependencies: note which other tasks must complete first, or "None - can start immediately"
• Context: which user stories from the PRD this addresses

If the PRD is a Backlog document, link back to it in each task's description. Do NOT modify the parent PRD document.