user-stories

Write user stories with acceptance criteria and INVEST guidelines.

Updated Jan 4, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/shwilliamson/a-test --skill user-stories
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: user-stories
Source: https://github.com/shwilliamson/a-test/tree/main/.automatasaurus/skills/user-stories
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/shwilliamson/a-test --skill user-stories

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill provides guidelines for writing well-formed user stories with clear acceptance criteria, enabling teams to create actionable issues from discovery findings and maintain consistency across projects.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • INVEST criteria: Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, Testable.
  • Acceptance Criteria: Use a checklist format to define success criteria for each story.
  • Templates & Examples: Use the standard "As a [type of user], I want [goal], So that [benefit]" format with concrete examples.
  • Breaking Down Large Features: Methods for decomposing large features into smaller, deliverable stories.
  • Issue Template: A reusable template to document user stories, criteria, and dependencies.

Quick Start

  • Write a user story in the format: As a [type of user], I want [goal], So that [benefit].
  • Attach an acceptance criteria checklist with 3-5 specific, testable items.
  • Ensure the story follows INVEST principles: Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, Testable.

Frequently Asked Questions about user-stories

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I write effective user stories with clear acceptance criteria?▼

To write effective user stories, use the format "As a [type of user], I want [goal], So that [benefit]" and attach a checklist of 3-5 specific, testable acceptance criteria to define success.

What is the INVEST framework for agile backlog refinement?▼

The INVEST framework ensures user stories are Independent, Negotiable, Valuable, Estimable, Small, and Testable, guiding teams to create actionable issues during backlog refinement and sprint planning.

How do I break down large features into smaller deliverable user stories?▼

You can break down large features by applying the INVEST framework to decompose them into smaller, testable user stories, ensuring each story delivers independent value and fits within a sprint.

What should be included in an agile issue template for user stories?▼

An agile issue template for user stories should include the standard user story format, a 3-5 item acceptance criteria checklist, and sections to document dependencies and INVEST compliance.

When should I apply acceptance criteria during sprint planning?▼

You should apply acceptance criteria during sprint planning and backlog refinement to capture requirements accurately and guide implementation with clear, testable success conditions for each story.