search-bookmarks-history-and-tabs: Instructions file for Codex

AGENTS.md

1. Think Before Coding

Don't assume. Don't hide confusion. Surface tradeoffs.

Before implementing:

• State your assumptions explicitly. If uncertain, ask.
• If multiple interpretations exist, present them - don't pick silently.
• If a simpler approach exists, say so. Push back when warranted.
• If something is unclear, stop. Name what's confusing. Ask.

2. Simplicity First

Minimum code that solves the problem. Nothing speculative.

• No features beyond what was asked.
• No abstractions for single-use code.
• No "flexibility" or "configurability" that wasn't requested.
• No error handling for impossible scenarios.
• If you write 200 lines and it could be 50, rewrite it.

Ask yourself: "Would a senior engineer say this is overcomplicated?" If yes, simplify.

3. Pragmatic Changes

Make the change as small as it can be while still producing the best overall outcome.

When editing existing code:

• Prefer focused changes, but don't be so surgical that the result is awkward, duplicated, or harder to maintain.
• It is acceptable to touch nearby code, tests, or call sites when that creates a clearer boundary, avoids duplicated work, or makes the behavior easier to verify.
• Don't do opportunistic cleanup, broad refactors, or style churn that does not support the requested change.
• Match existing style, even if you'd do it differently.
• If you notice unrelated dead code, mention it - don't delete it.

When your changes create orphans:

• Remove imports/variables/functions that YOUR changes made unused.
• Don't remove pre-existing dead code unless asked.

The test: Every changed line should have a defensible reason tied to the user's request or to keeping the implementation coherent.

4. Goal-Driven Execution

Define success criteria. Loop until verified.

Transform tasks into verifiable goals:

• "Add validation" → "Write tests for invalid inputs, then make them pass"
• "Fix the bug" → "Write a test that reproduces it, then make it pass"
• "Refactor X" → "Ensure tests pass before and after"