Minimal Plan
This example shows the smallest useful APS plan.
Single File Plan
For small projects, one file is enough:
---
format: aps
version: 1.0
---
# Todo App
A simple todo list application.
## Task: TODO-001 — Initial setup
**Outcome:** Project structure created with working build
**Validation:** `pnpm build`
**Steps:**
1. [ ] package.json created
2. [ ] TypeScript configured
3. [ ] Build produces dist/
---
## Task: TODO-002 — Add todo endpoint
**Outcome:** POST /todos creates a new todo item
**Validation:** `pnpm test src/todos/create.test.ts`
**Steps:**
1. [ ] Endpoint accepts POST /todos
2. [ ] Request body validated
3. [ ] Todo stored in database
4. [ ] Response includes created todo
---
## Task: TODO-003 — List todos endpoint
**Outcome:** GET /todos returns all todos for user
**Validation:** `pnpm test src/todos/list.test.ts`
**Steps:**
1. [ ] Endpoint accepts GET /todos
2. [ ] Todos filtered by user
3. [ ] Response paginated
Why This Works
Even this minimal plan provides:
Clear Outcomes
Each task has a single, measurable outcome. You know when it's done.
Validation Commands
Tests prove completion. No ambiguity.
Observable Steps
Each step describes what should be true, not how to achieve it.
When to Grow
Upgrade to multi-file when:
- More than 5-7 tasks
- Multiple distinct features
- Multiple people working
Template
Copy this template for new projects:
---
format: aps
version: 1.0
---
# {Project Name}
{Brief description}
## Task: {PREFIX}-001 — {Title}
**Outcome:** {What success looks like}
**Validation:** `{command}`
**Steps:**
1. [ ] {Observable state}
2. [ ] {Observable state}
Next: Multi-module example →