# Refactor Plan

> Create structured refactoring plans. Use when user wants to plan a refactor, needs a refactoring strategy, or mentions breaking down large changes into small commits.

- Skill: `majiayu000/refactor-plan` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds add majiayu000/refactor-plan`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/majiayu000/refactor-plan/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: majiayu000 (https://skillmd.com/u/majiayu000)
- Updated: 2026-09-09
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/majiayu000/refactor-plan

---


# Refactor Planning

## Process

### 1. Understand Problem
- Get detailed description from user
- Ask about potential solutions they've considered
- Explore codebase to verify current state

### 2. Define Scope
- Interview user about implementation details
- Present alternative approaches
- Define exactly what changes and what stays
- Check test coverage in affected areas

### 3. Break Down Work
Apply Martin Fowler's principle: "Make each refactoring step as small as possible, so that you can always see the program working."

- Create list of tiny commits
- Each commit leaves codebase working
- Sequential, not parallel changes

### 4. Create GitHub Issue
Use `gh issue create` with template (see `template.md`)

Include:
- Problem statement
- Solution approach
- Detailed commit plan
- Implementation decisions
- Testing strategy
- Out of scope items

## Rules

- Each commit must keep codebase functional
- No implementation details in plan (focus on behavior)
- Verify test coverage before starting
- Get user approval on approach

