# epic-breakdown-advisor

> Claude/Codex skill by [@deanpeters](https://omgskills.com/library/deanpeters/index.md) · 7.5k stars · Updated 2026-10-16

Break down epics into user stories with Humanizing Work split patterns. Use when a backlog item is too large to estimate, sequence, or deliver safely.

Tags: ai-agents, ai-product-management, claude-skills, pm-frameworks, product-management

## Install

```sh
git clone https://github.com/deanpeters/Product-Manager-Skills /tmp/Product-Manager-Skills && ln -s /tmp/Product-Manager-Skills/skills/epic-breakdown-advisor ~/.claude/skills/epic-breakdown-advisor
```

## From README

Purpose Guide product managers through breaking down epics into user stories using Richard Lawrence's complete Humanizing Work methodology—a systematic, flowchart-driven approach that applies 9 splitting patterns sequentially. Use this to identify which pattern applies, split while preserving user value, and evaluate splits based on what they reveal about low-value work you can eliminate. This ensures vertical slicing (end-to-end value) rather than horizontal slicing (technical layers). This is not arbitrary slicing—it's a proven, methodical process that starts with validation, walks through patterns in order, and evaluates results strategically. Input Works best with: The epic or large story you need to break down — paste it as written in your backlog. Also useful: Team context (sprint length, estimation ceiling) and what's blocking delivery (too big to estimate, sequence, or release).

## Links

- HTML page: https://omgskills.com/skills/deanpeters/product-manager-skills/epic-breakdown-advisor/
- GitHub: https://github.com/deanpeters/Product-Manager-Skills
- Author: [@deanpeters](https://omgskills.com/library/deanpeters/index.md)

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