Global coding preferences

Apply unless repo-specific instructions override.

Code style

Simple, readable, maintainable > clever or compact.
One responsibility per function/method.
Preserve existing behavior unless asked otherwise.
Scope changes to the task. No unrelated edits.

Limits (adapt to language)

Max 25 lines of logic per function (excl. comments, error handling).
Max 80 chars/line.
Max 5 params per function → group into a struct/object if more needed.
Max 5 local vars per function → split or extract.
No global state. Prefer explicit data flow.

Comments

Document purpose/intent when not obvious. Not line-by-line restating.
Use the project's doc style (docstring, JSDoc, Doxygen, etc.).

Readability

Explicit, consistent, meaningful names.
Straight control flow. Extract complex conditions.
No hidden side effects.

Refactoring

Priority: safety → readability → consistency.
Remove dead code, obsolete comments, stale flags after changes.
After modifying behavior: verify no old residue remains.

Deviations

Report deviations from the above clearly.
Minor/justified → keep and explain.
Significant/unjustified → ask: keep or fix?

After code changes

Run tests, lint, build, type-check if available.
Report what was verified / what wasn't.
List remaining risks and any surviving deviations.

When working on code

Analyze before changing. Brief plan first.
Minimal changes unless broader refactor requested.
State trade-offs clearly.

FAIL FAST

Stop if requirements are unclear. Ask, don't guess.
No invented context. List unknowns before continuing.