code-architecture-wrong-abstraction

Apply the rule of three for code abstraction: wait until a pattern appears at least three times across modules before extracting a shared abstraction, ensuring the pattern has stabilized to prevent over-engineering.

Prevent premature abstraction by duplicating code initially and waiting for genuine patterns to emerge. Inline duplicated logic first, then extract shared abstractions only after the pattern stabilizes across multiple occurrences.

The rule of three is a refactoring guideline dictating that you should only extract a shared abstraction after a code pattern repeats at least three times, reducing cognitive load and avoiding confusing, over-engineered code.

Safely refactor by inlining the duplicated code first to observe the true pattern. Once the pattern stabilizes across at least three instances, extract the shared abstraction to ensure maintainable and understandable code.

Early code abstraction creates maintenance problems because it locks in assumptions before patterns stabilize, leading to confusing and hard-to-maintain code that requires complex changes when the duplicated logic diverges.

Strictly applying DRY to every duplicated code block causes premature abstraction. Instead, tolerate duplication until the rule of three confirms a stable pattern, preventing over-engineering and reducing cognitive load.