Break down large tasks
How to divide work that spans days or involves many files.
Assign large work in stages and check each stage. If you assign everything at once, you may discover a wrong turn only at the end. Stages let you correct it where it happens.
A simple sequence
- Define what to build. Describe the finished result in one or two sentences.
- Get a design first. Ask, 'Propose the structure before building,' then approve it before moving on.
- Build a small piece. Start with the simplest piece and check it works.
- Connect the pieces. Add one verified piece at a time.
- Review the whole result. Ask another team member to review it from start to finish.
Illustration placeholder 1 · Work divided into stages
File name
assets/support/guides-big-tasks.png · Recommended size: 1600×900
Design → small piece → integration → review
What to check at each stage
| Stage | Check | Move on when |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Does it match what I want? | You agree with the structure |
| Small piece | Does it actually work? | You open and verify it yourself |
| Integration | Do earlier pieces still work? | Previous functions remain intact |
| Overall review | Is anything missing? | No unresolved issues remain in the review |
How many agents?
One or two may be enough for a small task. More agents do not automatically mean faster work; coordination also grows. Larger teams are useful for easily divided work such as many similar screens. Match team size to the task.
If you get stuck
- Make the stages smaller.
- If an agent repeats itself, Resetand have it reread the records before restarting.
- Record decisions so the team does not lose them. Use records effectively
Example
I want a simple inventory interface.
Stage 1: Have the architect propose the screens. Do not build until I approve.
Stage 2: After approval, build only the list screen.
Stage 3: When the list works, add the entry screen.
Stage 4: Have another member review the whole result.
Report in one line after each stage.Next Check the resultsis a good next read.