# Simplify

> Explain dense progress reports, task or wave summaries, blockers and decision requests in plain language. Use 'simplify this update', 'explain that simply', or before user-facing PRD/plan execution updates. Simplifies explanations, not code.

- Skill: `garyld1962/simplify-4` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add garyld1962/simplify-4`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/garyld1962/simplify-4/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Product & Planning
- Author: garyld1962 (https://skillmd.com/u/garyld1962)
- Updated: 2026-09-17
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/garyld1962/simplify-4

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# Simplify an update

Read [the output guidance](references/output.md) and use it to rewrite the
explanation for the user.

Without an explicit source, use the latest substantive assistant update or
execution summary. If the user supplies text, a report, or a file path, use
that instead. Read only the relevant source and linked evidence needed to
understand it. If there is no identifiable source, ask for the message to explain.

Return the rewritten explanation directly. Manual invocation does not rerun
checks, edit the source, implement fixes, or approve a proposed action. During
an active task, continue applying this guidance to subsequent user updates.

## Relationship to other skills

This skill explains work and decisions. It does not refactor code or replace
review, validation, or execution. During PRD/plan execution, use the guidance
as the final wording pass for every assistant-written user update; keep the
underlying workflow and evidence intact. The matching `/simplify` prompt is
an optional shortcut where prompt-file discovery is supported.