avoid-scope-creep

name	avoid-scope-creep
description	Common mistake — doing unrequested work (refactoring, adding extra features, cleaning up style) when the user asked for a specific, targeted change. Only change what was explicitly asked.
category	common_mistakes

Avoid Scope Creep

Mistake pattern: User asks to fix a specific bug → you also refactor the function, rename variables, add docstrings, and restructure the file → harder to review, introduces new risk.

Rule: Only change what was asked. If you notice other issues while working, mention them as a note rather than silently fixing them.

Exception: If a requested change is impossible without fixing a directly blocking dependency, fix the minimum required dependency and explain why.

Anti-pattern: while I'm here, I also improved... without being asked.