tool-usage-discipline

To optimize token usage during code search, prioritize high-context MCP tools like `grep` or `lsp_goto_definition` over manually browsing files to prevent context bloat. This approach ensures efficient session management by fetching precise definitions instead of loading entire files.

The best way to avoid reinventing the wheel is to consult loaded skills for domain knowledge before resorting to external searches. This prevents redundant tool usage and leverages existing context to guide intelligent tool invocation for the task.

Prevent redundant tool invocation by avoiding the re-fetching of information already present in the context. Guide your tool selection to use specialized tools once, satisfying the need for optimized token usage without repeating external searches.

Using generic shell commands increases context bloat because they often return unstructured or excessive output, whereas specialized MCP tools like LSP provide targeted results. Prioritizing these high-context tools reduces unnecessary token consumption.

Prioritize MCP tools over loaded skills when domain knowledge is insufficient for the specific task, such as finding a function in a large codebase. Use LSP or grep to execute the search efficiently without manual exploration.