Principle of Least Astonishment (POLA)

Auto-activate when: Making code changes, refactoring, modifying existing functions, changing APIs, renaming things, moving files, or reviewing implementations. Should activate alongside development-philosophy for any non-trivial changes.

Core Principle

Every change should be predictable to someone familiar with the codebase.

If a change would surprise a developer who knows the project, either:

1. Don't make it
2. Make a smaller, less surprising change
3. Explain clearly before proceeding

Before Making Changes

The Surprise Check