memory-context-optimization

Memory Management & Context Optimization Rules

🧠 CONTEXT WINDOW EFFICIENCY

Token Usage Optimization

• Minimize redundant information - never repeat what's already established
• Use precise technical language - avoid verbose explanations
• Reference existing patterns instead of re-explaining them
• Batch related operations to reduce context switching overhead
• Prioritize actionable information over background context

AI Interaction Patterns

// ✅ REQUIRED - Efficient AI collaboration
// Be specific: "Fix the memory leak in UserCache.ts line 45"
// Not: "There might be some issues with memory management"

// ✅ REQUIRED - Structured requests
// 1. State the exact problem
// 2. Show the relevant code snippet  
// 3. Specify the desired outcome
// 4. Request tests if needed

// ✅ REQUIRED - Context-aware prompting
// "In the authentication module, add rate limiting to prevent brute force attacks"
// Include: module context + specific action + security reasoning

Chat Organization (Vibe Coding Pattern)

• Open new chats for distinct tasks to maintain clarity
• Keep agent chats short and focused (max 10 exchanges)
• Label chats clearly with purpose ("Feature X", "Bug Fix Y")
• Reference previous chats when building on past work
• Document effective prompts for reuse

Memory-Conscious Development

// ✅ REQUIRED - Bounded data structures
class ConversationHistory {
  private readonly maxEntries = 100;
  private entries: ConversationEntry[] = [];
  
  addEntry(entry: ConversationEntry): void {
    this.entries.push(entry);
    if (this.entries.length > this.maxEntries) {
      this.entries.shift(); // Remove oldest
    }
  }
  
  // Use computed properties instead of storing derived data
  get recentEntries(): ConversationEntry[] {
    return this.entries.slice(-10);
  }
}

// ❌ FORBIDDEN - Unbounded growth
class BadHistory {
  private entries: ConversationEntry[] = []; // Grows forever
  private cache = new Map(); // No cleanup strategy
  private allUserActions: UserAction[] = []; // Memory leak
}