Execution Plans
This directory contains execution plans for complex, multi-step work.
What is an Execution Plan?
An execution plan (ExecPlan) is a living document that tracks progress on significant work. Unlike implementation specs (which define what to build), exec plans track how the work is progressing.
Directory Structure
exec-plans/
├── active/ # Currently in progress
├── completed/ # Finished work (for reference)
├── tech-debt-tracker.md # Known technical debt
└── README.md # This file
When to Use
Use an execution plan when:
- Work spans multiple sessions or days
- Multiple steps have dependencies
- Progress needs to be visible to humans
- Work involves significant research or discovery
Do NOT use for:
- Simple, single-session features
- Bug fixes
- Routine changes
ExecPlan Format
See the OpenAI Exec Plans cookbook for the full specification.
Key sections:
- Purpose / Big Picture: What someone gains after this change
- Progress: Checklist with timestamps
- Surprises & Discoveries: Unexpected findings
- Decision Log: Why choices were made
- Outcomes & Retrospective: Summary at completion