Simplify

Reduce complexity while preserving exact behavior. The goal is not fewer lines — it's code that is easier to read, understand, and modify. Every simplification must pass: "Would a new contributor understand this faster than the original?"

Do not simplify code you don't understand yet, code that is already clean, or code you're about to rewrite entirely.

Workflow

1. Understand before touching (Chesterton's Fence)

Before changing or removing anything, understand why it exists. Check git blame, read the context, understand the reason. Then decide if the reason still applies.

2. Identify opportunities