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Levels and Tracks FAQ

Quick answers to common questions about choosing the right level for your BMad Method project.

Questions

Section titled “Questions”

How do I know which level my project is?

Section titled “How do I know which level my project is?”

Use workflow-init for automatic detection, or self-assess using these keywords:

  • Level 0 — “fix”, “bug”, “typo”, “small change”, “patch” → 1 story
  • Level 1 — “simple”, “basic”, “small feature”, “add” → 1-10 stories
  • Level 2 — “dashboard”, “several features”, “admin panel” → 5-15 stories
  • Level 3 — “platform”, “integration”, “complex”, “system” → 12-40 stories
  • Level 4 — “enterprise”, “multi-tenant”, “multiple products” → 40+ stories

When in doubt, start smaller. You can always run create-prd later if needed.

Can I change levels mid-project?

Section titled “Can I change levels mid-project?”

Yes! If you started at Level 1 but realize it’s Level 2, you can run create-prd to add proper planning docs. The system is flexible — your initial level choice isn’t permanent.

What if workflow-init suggests the wrong level?

Section titled “What if workflow-init suggests the wrong level?”

You can override it! workflow-init suggests a level but always asks for confirmation. If you disagree, just say so and choose the level you think is appropriate. Trust your judgment.

Do I always need architecture for Level 2?

Section titled “Do I always need architecture for Level 2?”

No, architecture is optional for Level 2. Only create architecture if you need system-level design. Many Level 2 projects work fine with just PRD created during planning.

What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2?

Section titled “What’s the difference between Level 1 and Level 2?”
  • Level 1 — 1-10 stories, uses tech-spec (simpler, faster), no architecture
  • Level 2 — 5-15 stories, uses PRD (product-focused), optional architecture

The overlap (5-10 stories) is intentional. Choose based on:

  • Need product-level planning? → Level 2
  • Just need technical plan? → Level 1
  • Multiple epics? → Level 2
  • Single epic? → Level 1

Have a question not answered here? Please open an issue or ask in Discord so we can add it!