design-patterns

To choose a GoF design pattern during refactoring, identify the specific recurring design problem, then evaluate pattern candidates across Creational, Structural, and Behavioral categories using decision criteria to compare trade-offs and document your rationale.

You should apply design patterns when facing multi-component changes or needing flexible architectures, using pattern-based design guidance to structure robust, maintainable solutions through minimal and appropriate pattern application.

The best way to compare Factory and Builder patterns is using quick reference decision criteria to evaluate trade-offs, matching the specific Creational pattern candidate against your identified design problem to select the most appropriate structure.

Document software design pattern rationale by clearly identifying the design problem, evaluating pattern candidates, and recording the trade-offs and decision criteria that justify the minimal and appropriate application of the chosen pattern.

You can apply multiple GoF patterns during refactoring, but the guidance emphasizes minimal and appropriate pattern application, requiring clear problem identification and evaluation of candidates to avoid over-engineering the software design.