code-layout-evaluation-principles

name	code-layout-evaluation-principles
description	Evaluate code layout quality based on accuracy, consistency, readability, and maintainability rather than aesthetics. Use when establishing coding standards, reviewing code formatting, or making decisions about layout conventions.

Code Layout Evaluation Principles

Apply these principles when evaluating or establishing code layout standards.

Primary Priority

Clarify logical organization of code

Layout should first and foremost make the code's logical structure clear and understandable.

Evaluation Criteria (in order of importance)

1. Accuracy - Layout correctly represents code structure
2. Consistency - Layout follows established conventions throughout
3. Readability - Layout enhances code comprehension
4. Maintainability - Layout supports easy modification

Secondary Priority

Aesthetics

• Aesthetics are a distant second priority
• If the above criteria are met and underlying code is good, layout will naturally look good
• Never sacrifice clarity for beauty

Importance of Conventions

• Having a convention is more important than the specific details of the convention
• Inconsistent layout conventions actually harm readability
• Consistency across the codebase is more valuable than any particular style choice

Result

• Layout quality is scored based on logical clarity, not visual appeal
• Standards emphasize consistency and maintainability over aesthetics
• Code is easier to understand and modify