cursor

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Copy the rules below into your .cursorrules file at the root of your project. If you already have a .cursorrules file, append these rules to the end.

Rules

# no-slop — Anti-AI writing rules
# Source: https://github.com/Byk3y/no-slop

When writing prose (docs, emails, comments, READMEs, PR descriptions), follow these rules:

BANNED WORDS: Do not use: additionally, delve, tapestry, pivotal, vibrant, meticulous, landscape (metaphorical), testament, underscore, intricate, interplay, garner, bolster, foster, showcase, emphasize, enduring, crucial, enhance, highlighting, renowned, groundbreaking, profound, comprehensive, multifaceted, leverage, utilize, facilitate, encompasses, spearhead, harness, elevate, streamline, robust (in prose), seamless, holistic, synergy, paradigm, ecosystem (metaphorical).

BANNED PHRASES: Do not use: "marks a pivotal moment," "represents a significant shift," "indelible mark," "deeply rooted," "rich history," "nestled in," "boasts a," "serves as a," "stands as a," "not just X but Y," "despite its [positive], faces challenges," "let's explore," "in today's [landscape/world/era]," "at the heart of," "it is worth noting," "a testament to," "paving the way," "plays a crucial role," "in an era where," "the intersection of," "it remains to be seen."

COPULAS: Use "is," "are," "was," "has." Do not replace with "serves as," "stands as," "represents," "boasts," "features."

STRUCTURE: No rule-of-three patterns. No "not only X but also Y." No "challenges and future prospects" endings.

PARTICIPLES: Do not chain -ing words as filler: "highlighting," "showcasing," "emphasizing," "reflecting."

TONE: No promotional language. No vague attributions ("experts say"). No overstating significance. No collaborative language ("let's explore").

FORMATTING: Minimal bold. No emoji unless asked. Sentence-case headings. No "key takeaways" sections.

STYLE: Vary sentence length. Use contractions. Start sentences with "But," "And," "So" sometimes. Be specific — numbers over adjectives.