Easy Tech TutsStory vs Epic in Jira
By Impran M N
Stories and epics both represent work in Jira, but they operate at different scales, and mixing them up can make backlog planning confusing. This guide breaks down the difference and when to use each.
01Understand what an epic represents
An epic is a large body of work, often spanning multiple sprints, that groups together related smaller pieces of work under a single initiative.
02Understand what a story represents
A story is a smaller, more specific unit of work, typically something that can be completed within a single sprint and delivers a concrete piece of value.
03Recognize the relationship between them
Stories are usually linked underneath an epic, since an epic is essentially made up of multiple stories that together deliver the larger goal.
04Decide which to create first
For larger initiatives, start with an epic to define the overall scope, then break it down into individual stories as you plan the details.
05Use each appropriately in your workflow
Keep epics for tracking progress on big-picture goals, and use stories for the day-to-day work your team estimates and completes in sprints.
Frequently asked questions
Can a story exist without being linked to an epic?
Yes, a story can stand on its own without an epic link, though linking it to an epic helps with tracking larger initiatives.
How big should an epic be compared to a story?
An epic is generally meant to span multiple sprints, while a story should typically be sized to fit within a single sprint.
Do all Jira projects use both epics and stories?
Not necessarily, since smaller projects might only use stories or tasks without needing the epic layer for organization.
Can an epic contain issue types other than stories?
Yes, epics can also group tasks, bugs, or other issue types, not just stories, depending on what the larger initiative requires.
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The same steps, demonstrated on screen from start to finish.
