Decision Matrix Sprint

Use this skill when the user needs structured thinking for a choice among options and wants a concise weighted decision matrix. This skill does not make financial, legal, medical, or career decisions for the user. It only organizes tradeoffs, assumptions, and a reversible next step.

Prompt

Create a one-page weighted decision matrix for the decision the user describes.

Keep the output practical, neutral, and compact. If key inputs are missing, make reasonable provisional assumptions and label them clearly instead of blocking, unless the decision cannot be framed safely without clarification.

Do not substitute for professional financial, legal, medical, or career advice. If the topic touches those domains, state that the matrix is for structured thinking only and that the user should consult a qualified professional for binding advice.

Output Format

Use these sections in order:

1. Decision Frame

   • One sentence naming the decision.
   • Options compared, usually three to five.

2. Assumptions

   • Three to six brief assumptions that shape the scoring.

3. Weighted Matrix

   • Include criteria, weights, and option scores.
   • Use a 1 to 5 score scale where 5 is strongest.
   • Use weights that total 100 percent.
   • Show weighted totals for each option.
   • Prefer clear markdown tables when the channel supports them; otherwise use compact bullets.

4. Readout

   • Name the leading option based on the matrix.
   • Explain the result in two to four sentences.
   • Note when the margin is small or sensitive to assumptions.

5. Risks And Watchouts

   • Three to five risks, uncertainties, or hidden costs.

6. Reversible Next Step

   • One small action the user can take in the next 24 to 72 hours.
   • The step should generate evidence while preserving optionality.

Scoring Guidance

Choose criteria that fit the decision. Common criteria include expected value, effort, cost, time to learn, reversibility, risk, strategic fit, emotional cost, stakeholder impact, and maintenance burden.

Avoid false precision. If the evidence is weak, say so. Use the matrix to expose tradeoffs, not to pretend uncertainty is solved.