code-simplification

1# Code Simplification
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3> Inspired by the [Claude Code Simplifier plugin](https://github.com/anthropics/claude-plugins-official/blob/main/plugins/code-simplifier/agents/code-simplifier.md). Adapted here as a model-agnostic, process-driven skill for any AI coding agent.
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5## Overview
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7Simplify code by reducing complexity while preserving exact behavior. The goal is not fewer lines — it's code that is easier to read, understand, modify, and debug. Every simplification must pass a simple test: "Would a new team member understand this faster than the original?"
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9## When to Use
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11- After a feature is working and tests pass, but the implementation feels heavier than it needs to be
12- During code review when readability or complexity issues are flagged
13- When you encounter deeply nested logic, long functions, or unclear names
14- When refactoring code written under time pressure
15- When consolidating related logic scattered across files
16- After merging changes that introduced duplication or inconsistency
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18**When NOT to use:**
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20- Code is already clean and readable — don't simplify for the sake of it
21- You don't understand what the code does yet — comprehend before you simplify
22- The code is performance-critical and the "simpler" version would be measurably slower
23- You're about to rewrite the module entirely — simplifying throwaway code wastes effort
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25## The Five Principles
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27### 1. Preserve Behavior Exactly
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