Coding
Explain an unfamiliar function before editing it
Understand a small code snippet, its assumptions, and the questions to answer before changing it.
Claude
~15 min · Intermediate◦ Documented
Choose a task · 3 documented guides
Coding workflows for understanding and small prototypes
Make the behavior understandable before making a change. Work with a small code sample, a clear bug report, or a prototype using dummy data, and keep executable checks separate from plausible explanations.
Choose a workflow
Coding
Turn a vague bug report into a reproduction plan
Organize known facts, competing explanations, and the smallest useful checks before changing code.
ChatGPT
~20 min · Intermediate◦ Documented
Coding
Prototype a filterable list with dummy data
Use Gemini Canvas to explore an interface before connecting accounts or building a production app.
Gemini
~30 min · Intermediate◦ Documented
Before you start
What code can I share with an assistant?
Use code you are entitled to share and remove secrets, credentials, and private data. Include only the context needed to understand the behavior.
Does a convincing explanation prove the code works?
No. Compare the explanation with the code and run appropriate checks in your own environment. A suggested fix or prototype remains unverified until you test it.
What makes a bug report useful?
Record the environment, smallest known reproduction steps, expected result, actual result, and evidence. Label guesses about the cause as guesses.