simplify

name	simplify
description	Behavior-preserving code simplification workflow for clarity, consistency, directness, and maintainability. Use when the user asks to simplify code, run /simplify, reduce unnecessary complexity, flatten conditionals, improve naming, or make recently changed code easier to read without changing behavior.

Simplify Code

Refactor code to make it easier to read, simpler to maintain, and more consistent with the surrounding codebase without changing what it does.

Invoke this skill with /simplify.

Purpose

Use this skill when a user wants cleaner code, a more direct implementation, or a readability pass that preserves exact functionality.

Working Principles

Preserve functionality. Never change behavior, outputs, side effects, or public interfaces unless the user explicitly asks for that.

Apply project standards. Match the existing conventions, patterns, naming style, and architectural expectations of the codebase.

Reduce unnecessary complexity. Flatten avoidable nesting, remove redundant abstractions, and prefer the most direct implementation that remains clear.

Keep variables intentional. Avoid introducing extra state unless it materially improves readability or is reused enough to justify it.

Improve naming and structure. Prefer clear variable and function names, and group related logic so the code reads in a straightforward way.

Default Scope

Focus on recently modified code unless the user points to a different file, module, or diff.

Reference

Inspired by the new Claude Code /simplify command:

https://x.com/bcherny/status/2027534984534544489?s=20