karpathy-guidelines

Apply Karpathy coding guidelines to writing and reviewing LLM code.

Updated Apr 30, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/Ced3-han/Harness-Settings --skill karpathy-guidelines-ced3-han
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: karpathy-guidelines
Source: https://github.com/Ced3-han/Harness-Settings/tree/main/skills/karpathy-guidelines
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/Ced3-han/Harness-Settings --skill karpathy-guidelines-ced3-han

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Reduces common coding mistakes in LLMs by providing explicit guidelines for writing, reviewing, and refactoring code.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Behavioral Guidelines: Avoid overcomplication, make surgical changes, surface assumptions, and define verifiable success criteria.
  • Use Case: When writing code to be reviewed or refactored, this skill helps ensure adherence to best practices, reducing the likelihood of introducing errors.

Quick Start

Follow the Karpathy Guidelines to write cleaner and more maintainable code.

Frequently Asked Questions about karpathy-guidelines

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I prevent common LLM coding mistakes during code generation?

To prevent common LLM coding mistakes, apply explicit behavioral guidelines that enforce avoiding overcomplication and making surgical changes. This reduces errors by requiring adherence to defined programming standards during the code generation and review processes.

What are the best practices for reviewing LLM generated code?

The best practices for reviewing LLM generated code involve checking for overcomplication, verifying surgical changes, and surfacing hidden assumptions. Defining verifiable success criteria ensures the code meets explicit programming guidelines before approval.

How do I ensure LLM code refactoring doesn't introduce new errors?

To ensure LLM code refactoring doesn't introduce errors, enforce guidelines that restrict modifications to surgical changes and require assumptions to be surfaced. This prevents unintended side effects by maintaining strict adherence to best practices.

What programming guidelines help reduce code overcomplication by LLMs?

Programming guidelines that reduce code overcomplication by LLMs focus on making surgical changes and defining verifiable success criteria. These behavioral standards ensure the code remains maintainable and aligned with review expectations.

When do I need explicit behavioral guidelines for LLM code development?

You need explicit behavioral guidelines for LLM code development when writing code that requires review or refactoring. These guidelines reduce common mistakes by enforcing best practices and making assumptions visible before the code is approved.