<purpose> Provides realistic time estimates for coding tasks before work begins. Users often underestimate task complexity. This skill analyzes codebase scope, categorizes task complexity, identifies risk factors, and calculates estimates based on measured Claude Code performance baselines. Prevents surprise delays and enables better planning. </purpose>

• Task description from the user
• Path to relevant codebase (default: current directory)
• Number of files likely in scope (if known)

• --files <n>

  : Override estimated files in scope

• --json

  : Output structured JSON for programmatic use

python scripts/estimate_task.py --task "<task_description>" --path "<codebase_path>"

• Task category (trivial/simple/medium/complex/major)
• Scope analysis (files, lines, test coverage)
• Time range (low-high estimate)
• Breakdown by phase (analysis, implementation, testing, verification)
• Risk factors with explanations
• Checkpoint recommendations for long tasks

• Re-run with

  --files

  override if scope is clearer
• Adjust category interpretation based on domain knowledge

1. Run

   scripts/estimate_task.py --task "Add user authentication" --path .

2. Output shows:
   • Category: Complex
   • Estimated time: 24-53 minutes
   • Risk factors: High-risk changes, External dependencies
   • Recommendation: Break into phases with commits between each

1. Detect this is a non-trivial task (feature keyword)
2. Run

   scripts/estimate_task.py --task "Add dark mode toggle to settings" --path ./src

3. Present estimate: 10-22 minutes (Medium complexity)
4. Begin implementation with checkpoint plan

1. Detect trivial task (typo keyword)
2. Run quick estimate: 3-6 minutes
3. Proceed immediately (no detailed breakdown needed for trivial tasks)