User Story Template for Linear (2026)
Linear keeps user stories lean with its streamlined issue interface. This template maps user story elements to Linear fields and takes advantage of Linear-specific features like Triage, sub-issues, and keyboard-driven workflows.
Use this as a template for creating consistent stories in your Linear backlog.
Template sections
5 sections covering the complete user story workflow.
Issue Title
Keep Linear issue titles short and action-oriented. Example: "Add Apple Pay to checkout" not "As a user I want to pay with Apple Pay so that I can check out faster." The user story format goes in the Description.
Description Format
Use Linear markdown in the Description. Start with the user story format, then add acceptance criteria as a task list. Linear renders checkboxes natively, making acceptance criteria trackable within the issue.
Estimation
Use Linear estimates (linear, exponential, or t-shirt sizing depending on your team settings). Enable estimates in Settings > Team > Estimates. Issues above 5 points (or L) should be broken into sub-issues.
Triage Workflow
New stories land in Triage by default. During backlog grooming, move stories from Triage to Backlog with a priority and cycle assignment. Stories without estimates should not leave Triage.
Sub-Issues and Relations
Break large stories into sub-issues using the "Add sub-issue" action. Use Relations to mark blocking dependencies. Linear displays a dependency graph when multiple issues are linked.
Copy-paste template
## Issue Title [Short, action-oriented title] ## Description **As a** [user type], **I want to** [action], **So that** [benefit]. ### Acceptance Criteria - [ ] [Criterion 1] - [ ] [Criterion 2] - [ ] [Criterion 3] ### Design [Figma link] ### Technical Notes [Implementation context] ## Linear Fields - Team: [Team] - Priority: [Urgent/High/Medium/Low/None] - Estimate: [1/2/3/5/8] - Label: [feature-area] - Cycle: [Sprint N]
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