# Phase 1: Intake

**Progress: Phase 1 of 5**

## Purpose

Establish what the user is bringing to the table and what state it is in.

## Steps

1. Read any provided context - files, tickets, prior conversations, existing docs.
2. Identify what already exists: greenfield, extension, replacement, or fix?
3. Classify input maturity:
   - **Raw idea** - a sentence or feeling, no structure yet
   - **Rough concept** - some goals stated, many unknowns remain
   - **Partial spec** - some sections already defined, gaps need filling
4. Acknowledge what you understood and state what is still unknown.
5. Ask the first question to begin divergence.

## Rules

- Do NOT propose solutions during intake
- Do NOT ask more than one question at a time
- Do NOT assume anything the user has not stated

## Gate

**Advances when:** You have summarized the current state and the user confirms the summary is accurate.
**Returns to this phase when:** The user corrects a misunderstanding.

Ask the user: "Here is what I understand so far: [summary]. Is this accurate, or should I adjust?"

Do NOT proceed to Phase 2 until the user confirms.
