software-development

Enforce clean-code principles in backend development workflows.

Updated Aug 27, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/will-flemmer/claude-config --skill software-development
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: software-development
Source: https://github.com/will-flemmer/claude-config/tree/main/skills/software-development
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/will-flemmer/claude-config --skill software-development

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill codifies clean code principles to help you avoid common pitfalls such as unnecessary try/catch blocks, unused variables, DRY violations, and layer confusion, reducing bugs and making maintenance easier.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • DRY & modularity: Encourage code reuse and reduce duplication.
  • Layer separation: Keep business logic in models; controllers stay thin.
  • Quality guardrails: Promote clear boundaries and maintainable patterns.

Quick Start

Refactor a sample workflow to move business logic into a model method (e.g., Order.confirm()) and call it from the controller, ensuring the controller remains thin.

Frequently Asked Questions about software-development

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I keep business logic out of controllers and move it into models?

Layer separation enforces putting business logic in model methods rather than controllers. Move operations like Order.confirm() into the model; controllers call these methods and remain thin. This reduces duplication, improves testability, and makes maintenance easier by centralizing logic where it belongs.

What are DRY violations and how do I eliminate code duplication?

DRY (Don't Repeat Yourself) violations occur when the same logic appears in multiple places. Extract repeated patterns into reusable model methods or utility functions. This reduces bugs, simplifies updates, and improves readability by ensuring each piece of logic exists in exactly one location.

When should I use try/catch blocks and when should I avoid them?

Try/catch blocks should handle genuinely exceptional conditions, not control flow. Avoid wrapping code defensively or catching exceptions you don't actually handle. Use them purposefully for specific error recovery; unnecessary blocks hide real issues and make code harder to follow.

How do I identify and fix common anti-patterns in backend code?

Common anti-patterns include fat controllers, unused variables, unclear exception handling, and mixed concerns across layers. Clean-code principles enforce layer boundaries, defensive coding practices, and explicit exception handling. Regular refactoring to these standards reduces bugs and technical debt.

What's the best way to structure backend workflows for maintainability?

Structure workflows with clear separation: models hold business logic, controllers handle requests and responses, and each layer has a single responsibility. This architecture keeps code testable, reduces coupling, and makes it easier to locate and modify functionality without unintended side effects.