orthogonal-code

Analyze software component independence using orthogonality heuristics for coupling and SOLID principles.

Updated Mar 7, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/silvabyte/skills --skill orthogonal-code
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: orthogonal-code
Source: https://github.com/silvabyte/skills/tree/main/skills/orthogonal-code
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/silvabyte/skills --skill orthogonal-code

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps developers write and review code that is independent and easy to change, reducing the ripple effect of modifications and improving maintainability.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Orthogonality Heuristics: Provides clear red and green flags to identify and improve component independence.
  • Code Review Aid: Helps reviewers spot coupling issues like Shotgun Surgery or Train Wrecks.
  • Refactoring Guidance: Offers strategies to move from tightly-coupled to loosely-coupled systems.
  • Use Case: When reviewing a Pull Request, use this Skill to systematically check for common coupling smells and ensure new code adheres to principles of modularity.

Quick Start

Use the orthogonal-code skill to evaluate the coupling of the 'OrderService' module.

Frequently Asked Questions about orthogonal-code

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I review code for coupling issues and modularity smells?

To review code for coupling issues, apply targeted heuristics to identify red flags like Shotgun Surgery and Train Wrecks. This systematically evaluates component independence against SOLID principles and the Law of Demeter to ensure modularity.

What is orthogonal code and how does it improve software design?

Orthogonal code refers to independent software components that are easy to change. It improves software design by reducing the ripple effect of modifications, addressing coupling issues, and enhancing overall system maintainability through strict modularity.

How can I refactor tightly-coupled systems into loosely-coupled modules?

Refactor tightly-coupled systems into loosely-coupled modules by applying targeted decoupling strategies. This provides actionable green flags to guide structural transitions, resolve SOLID principle violations, and establish modular design.

Does this approach help enforce SOLID principles and the Law of Demeter during pull requests?

Yes, this approach enforces SOLID principles and the Law of Demeter during pull requests by systematically checking new code for common coupling smells. It provides actionable red and green flags to evaluate component independence and ensure modularity.

What are the common red flags indicating a lack of component independence?

Common red flags indicating a lack of component independence include Shotgun Surgery and Train Wrecks. Identifying these coupling issues during code review helps developers spot tight dependencies and apply appropriate decoupling heuristics.