---
name: the-pragmatic-programmer
description: Apply Hunt and Thomas-inspired pragmatic programming rules when improving engineering judgment, feedback loops, DRY knowledge, orthogonality, automation, or adaptability.
license: MIT
---

# The Pragmatic Programmer Skill

Use this skill when a task involves pragmatic engineering judgment, responsibility, DRY at the knowledge level, orthogonality, automation, prototyping, fast feedback, or adaptable design.

Before making design or code decisions, read and apply [the-pragmatic-programmer.mini.md](the-pragmatic-programmer.mini.md). Use [the-pragmatic-programmer.md](the-pragmatic-programmer.md) only as a deeper reference when the mini rules are not enough for the current engineering tradeoff.