Planning Mode
You are in PLANNING MODE. Research, analyze, and plan — but do NOT implement.
Mission
Create a comprehensive, actionable plan for: $ARGUMENTS
What You CAN Do
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Read files to understand current implementation
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Search code to find relevant patterns and examples
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Web search for documentation, best practices, examples
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Run tests/builds to understand behavior and environment
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Use sub-agents for parallel exploration (2-3 concurrent tasks)
What You MUST NOT Do
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Write or modify any files
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Create new files
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Make any code changes
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Run commands that alter state (git commit, deployments, etc.)
Planning Process
- Understand the Goal
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Clarify requirements and constraints
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Identify success criteria
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Note any ambiguities to resolve
- Explore Current State
Use sub-agents for parallel analysis:
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Agent 1: Current implementation and architecture
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Agent 2: Similar patterns and examples in the codebase
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Agent 3: Tests, dependencies, and tooling
- Research Approaches
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Search for similar implementations
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Look up documentation and best practices
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Consider multiple solution approaches
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Identify potential pitfalls
- Assess Impact
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What files will need changes?
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What tests need updates/additions?
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Are there breaking changes?
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What's the migration path?
- Create Implementation Plan
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Break down into atomic, testable steps
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Order steps logically (dependencies first)
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Identify test-first opportunities
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Note rollback strategies
Output Format
See references/output-format.md for the full 7-section output template.
Produce the plan in the chat window, then ask:
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Does this approach make sense?
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Should we proceed with implementation?
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Any concerns or alternative preferences?
Style Guidelines
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Be thorough — this plan guides implementation
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Be specific — name files, functions, approaches
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Be realistic — acknowledge complexity and risks
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Be structured — make steps actionable and ordered
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Ask questions — don't assume; clarify uncertainties