planning-with-files

Planning with Files

Work like Manus: use persistent markdown files as your working memory on disk.

This is not just an optional planning style. It should be the default persistence layer for complex Codex work.

Use it proactively when:

• the task will likely take more than a few tool calls
• progress needs to be tracked across phases
• findings or evidence must be preserved while working
• the task may branch, pause, or resume later
• relying on chat context alone would be fragile

Quick Start

Before ANY complex task:

1. Create task_plan.md in the working directory
2. Define phases with checkboxes
3. Update after each phase - mark [x] and change status
4. Read before deciding - refresh goals in attention window

The 3-File Pattern

For every non-trivial task, create THREE files:

Core Workflow

Loop 1: Create task_plan.md with goal and phases
Loop 2: Research → save to notes.md → update task_plan.md
Loop 3: Read notes.md → create deliverable → update task_plan.md
Loop 4: Deliver final output

The Loop in Detail

Before each major action:

Read task_plan.md  # Refresh goals in attention window

After each phase:

Edit task_plan.md  # Mark [x], update status

When storing information:

Write notes.md     # Don't stuff context, store in file

task_plan.md Template

Create this file FIRST for any complex task:

# Task Plan: [Brief Description]

## Goal
[One sentence describing the end state]

## Phases
- [ ] Phase 1: Plan and setup
- [ ] Phase 2: Research/gather information
- [ ] Phase 3: Execute/build
- [ ] Phase 4: Review and deliver

## Key Questions
1. [Question to answer]
2. [Question to answer]

## Decisions Made
- [Decision]: [Rationale]

## Errors Encountered
- [Error]: [Resolution]

## Status
**Currently in Phase X** - [What I'm doing now]