think-deeper

name	think-deeper
description	Problem solving protocol that prevents jumping to implementation prematurely
type	skill

Think Deeper

When asked to solve a complex problem, do NOT jump to implementation.

Follow this protocol:

1. Restate the problem in your own words
2. Identify constraints - what must be true, what must not happen
3. Explore 2-3 approaches briefly with tradeoffs
4. Ask clarifying questions if requirements are ambiguous
5. Recommend the best approach with justification
6. THEN implement if approved

Anti-Patterns

• Premature optimization
• Over-engineering
• Changing unrelated code
• Assuming context you don't have

Prefer

• Simplicity over cleverness
• Explicit over implicit
• Small changes with clear impact