iterative-refinement

Iterative Refinement

Execute workflows iteratively with systematic validation, progress tracking, and intelligent termination.

When to Use

Use for tasks requiring iterative refinement:

• Test-fix-validate cycles: Fix failures → retest → repeat until passing
• Code quality improvement: Review → fix → review until standards met
• Performance optimization: Profile → optimize → measure until targets achieved
• Progressive enhancement: Iterative improvements until diminishing returns

Don't use for single-pass tasks, purely parallel work, or simple linear workflows.

Pre-Usage Research (Optional)

Before starting iterations, consider researching current best practices, known issues, optimal configurations, or recent alternatives for your validation tools.

Research first when: unfamiliar tools, new tech stack, complex quality criteria, or high-stakes optimization.

Core Loop Pattern

Every iteration follows:

1. Execute action (fix, optimize, improve)
2. Validate result (test, measure, check)
3. Assess progress (compare to criteria)
4. Decide (continue or stop)

Instructions

Step 1: Define Configuration

Establish before starting:

Success Criteria (specific and measurable):

• Criterion 1: [Example: "All 50 tests passing"]
• Criterion 2: [Example: "Zero linter warnings"]
• Criterion 3: [Example: "Response time < 100ms"]

Loop Limits:

• Max iterations: 5-15 (justify if >20)
• Min iterations: (optional)

Termination Mode:

• Fixed: Run exactly N iterations
• Criteria: Stop when success criteria met
• Convergence: Stop when improvements < threshold (e.g., <10% over 3 iterations)
• Hybrid: Combine multiple conditions

Step 2: Execute Iteration

For each iteration:

1. Take action - Apply fixes or implement changes

2. Run validator - Execute tests, linters, or measurements

3. Record progress:

   Iteration N:
   - Action: [what was done]
   - Results: [metrics/outcomes]
   - Issues remaining: [count/description]
   - Decision: [Continue/Success/Stop]