Coding & Cursor Rules

Safe Refactor Prompt

Refactor messy code without changing behavior.

Copy template

Refactor this code to be easier to read and change, WITHOUT changing behavior:

```
[PASTE CODE]
```

Rules:
- Keep the public interface (function names, arguments, return values) identical.
- Make small steps. For each step, say what changed and why it is safe.
- If tests exist, they must still pass. If none exist, first write characterization tests that pin current behavior.
- Do not "fix" bugs silently; list any you notice separately.

How to use it

1. Click Copy template.
2. Paste into ChatGPT, Claude, Grok, Cursor, or your agent framework.
3. Replace the [BRACKETED] parts with your details.

FAQ

What are characterization tests?

Tests that record what the code does today, so you can tell if a refactor broke it.

How big a chunk should I paste?

One file or function at a time works best.

Related templates