Every line of code earns its place. Readable, not terse — but recognize that lines can be net-negative.

Start with minimal data structures and APIs. If the core is right, trimming excess is straightforward.

- Unused code, obvious comments, impossible-condition checks — all net-negative
- Don't add features, refactor code, or make improvements beyond what was asked
- Three similar lines of code is better than a premature abstraction
- When in doubt between two approaches, pick the simpler one
