Minimal dependencies
Updated 2026-02-13
Prefer existing packages; avoid adding dependencies unless necessary; pin versions and document why new deps are needed. Use in any AI-assisted editor.
Use in Cursor, Windsurf, Codeium, or any AI-assisted editor.
Rule
# Minimal dependencies
Prefer using what the project already has. Avoid adding new dependencies unless they are clearly necessary.
- **Before adding:** Check if the project (or its existing deps) already provides similar functionality. Prefer a small amount of custom code over a new package when it's simple.
- **When adding:** Prefer well-maintained, widely used packages. Pin versions (exact or range) in the dependency manifest and document why the dependency was added.
- **Avoid:** Adding a dependency for a one-off use, or pulling in large libraries for a tiny feature.