Agent skill · writing content · mattpocock
to-spec
Turn the current conversation into a spec and publish it to the project issue tracker: no interview, just synthesis of what you've already discussed.
Why this skill is useful
Generates a comprehensive spec document using project-specific vocabulary and structure that the AI wouldn't reliably produce on its own.
What it needs
About 2k tokens when loaded. Last updated 2026-08-06. 207,363 stars on the source repository.
What this skill does
This skill takes the current conversation context and codebase understanding and produces a spec. Do NOT interview the user; just synthesize what you already know. The issue tracker and triage label vocabulary should have been provided to you. If not, tell the user to run /setup-matt-pocock-skills. Process 1. Explore the repo to understand the current state of the codebase, if you haven't already. Use the project's domain glossary vocabulary throughout the spec, and respect any ADRs in the area you're touching. 2. Sketch out the seams at which you're going to test the feature. Existing seams should be preferred to new ones. Use the highest seam possible. If new seams are needed, propose them at the highest point you can. The fewer seams across the codebase, the better - the ideal number is one. Check with the user that these seams match their expectations. 3. Write the spec using the template below, then publish it to the project issue tracker. Apply the ready-for-agent triage label - no need for additional triage. <spec-template> Problem Statement The problem that the user is facing, from the user's perspective. Solution The solution to the problem, from the user's perspective. User Stories A LONG, numbered list of user stories. Each user story should be in the format of: 1. As an <actor>, I want a <feature>, so that <benefit> <user-story-example> 1. As a mobile bank customer, I want to see balance on my accounts, so that I can make better informed decisions about my spending </user-story-example> This list of user stories should be extremely extensive and cover all aspects of the feature. Implementation Decisions A list of implementation decisions that were made. This can include: The modules that will be built/modified The interfaces of those modules that will be modified Technical clarifications from the developer Architectural decisions Schema changes API contracts Specific interactions Do NOT include specific file paths or code snippets. …
How to use it
Reference it in AdaL, Claude Code, Cursor or any coding agent — nothing to install:
@skills mattpocock/to-spec