linter-loop-limits

Linter Loop Limits

RULE: Do NOT loop more than 3 times fixing linter errors on the same file.

The Problem

Agents can get stuck in infinite loops trying to fix linter errors, wasting tokens and time without making progress. Each failed attempt often introduces new issues or reverts previous fixes.

The 3-Strike Rule

Strike 1: Initial Fix

• Read the linter error carefully
• Understand what the rule is checking
• Make targeted fix based on error message
• Run linter again

Strike 2: Second Attempt

• If first fix didn't work, analyze WHY
• Consider if the error message is misleading
• Check if there are conflicting rules
• Try a different approach
• Run linter again

Strike 3: Final Attempt

• If still failing, step back and reconsider
• Check if there's a fundamental misunderstanding
• Review linter configuration
• Make one more targeted fix
• Run linter again

After 3 Strikes: STOP

If the error persists after 3 attempts:

DO:

• STOP trying to fix it automatically
• Present the error to the user
• Explain what you've tried
• Ask for guidance
• Document the approaches that failed

DON'T:

• Keep looping hoping it will work
• Try random fixes
• Suppress or ignore the error
• Modify linter config to hide the issue
• Add eslint-disable comments without permission

Communication Template

After 3 failed attempts, use this format:

I've attempted to fix this linter error 3 times without success:

**Error:** [exact error message]
**File:** [file path and line number]
**Rule:** [linter rule name if available]

**Attempts made:**
1. [First approach] - Result: [what happened]
2. [Second approach] - Result: [what happened]  
3. [Third approach] - Result: [what happened]

**My analysis:** [why it might be failing]

How would you like me to proceed?
- Option A: Try a specific fix you suggest
- Option B: Disable this rule for this line (with eslint-disable)
- Option C: Investigate the root cause further
- Option D: Skip this for now and continue