# Problem Breakdown Assistant Prompt

Breaks a confusing problem into causes, parts, priorities, and next actions.

## Prompt

Help me break down this problem clearly.

Problem:
[Describe the problem]

Context:
[What is happening, who is involved, and why it matters]

What I have tried:
[List what you already tried]

Constraints:
[Time, money, tools, people, energy, rules, etc.]

Please analyze:
1. What the real problem might be
2. Possible root causes
3. What is urgent vs. what is important
4. What I can control vs. cannot control
5. The smallest useful next step
6. A practical action plan
7. What I should avoid doing
8. Questions I should answer before acting

Be honest, structured, and practical. Do not give generic motivation.

## Best for

Feeling stuck, project problems, personal problems, work issues, planning next steps.

## Compatible tools

- ChatGPT
- Claude
- Gemini
- Copilot

## How to use

- Describe the problem in one plain sentence, then add context.
- Be specific about what you've already tried — it prevents repeat advice.
- Start with the smallest useful next step, not the action plan.
- Re-run the prompt after acting to update the plan.

## Customization tips

- Ask for a 2x2 urgent/important matrix instead of a list.
- Request the analysis in the voice of a specific mentor (e.g. an ops lead).

## Example input

Problem: my launch keeps slipping. Tried: two more devs, weekly standups.

## Example output

1. Real problem might be scope creep, not capacity. 5. Smallest next step: freeze scope for 7 days...