gh-yebot-rad-cc-plugins-plugins-backlog-md-cli/commands/backlog-start.md

Start Working on Backlog.md Task

Help the user start work on a Backlog.md task following the proper workflow.

Instructions

1. Identify the task:

   • Ask the user which task they want to work on (by ID or search keyword)
   • If searching: backlog search "{keyword}" --plain
   • If by ID: Verify it exists with backlog task {id} --plain

2. View the task:

   backlog task {id} --plain
   

   • Show the task details to the user
   • Confirm this is the correct task

3. Start the task (mark as In Progress and assign):

   backlog task edit {id} -s "In Progress" -a @myself
   

   • This is the "start task ritual" - never skip it!
   • Verify the change: backlog task {id} --plain

4. Create implementation plan:

   • Ask the user about their approach OR
   • Analyze the task and propose a plan
   • Create plan with proper newlines:

   backlog task edit {id} --plan $'1. First step\n2. Second step\n3. Third step'
   

5. Present plan for approval:

   • Show the implementation plan to the user
   • CRITICAL: Wait for user approval before coding
   • Say: "I've created the implementation plan. Please review before I proceed with coding."

6. Only after approval:

   • Proceed with implementation
   • Remind user to check off ACs as they're completed
   • Remind about adding implementation notes

Important Reminders

• NEVER edit task files directly
• ALWAYS use backlog task edit commands
• WAIT for user approval of plan before coding
• VERIFY all changes with backlog task {id} --plain

Definition of Done for This Command

• Task status changed to "In Progress"
• Task assigned to user
• Implementation plan created and added to task
• Plan presented to user for approval
• User understands next steps