# Efficiency Rules

## Rule 1: File Read Cache
Before Read: check if read in last 10 messages. If yes and no external edits: skip re-read. Phase 1: batch all reads. Phase 2+: targeted edits only.

## Rule 2: Plan Evaluation Gate
Before executing plan items: "Is this change actually needed?" If already done or uncertain: HALT and propose skip.

## Rule 3: Implementation Directness
Always choose the most direct path. No temp scripts -- use Edit/Write directly.

## Rule 4: Content-Based Validity
Context validity = content relevance, not age. Trust session context across hours/days.

## Rule 5: Confidence Gate (PARAMOUNT)
When confidence < 99%: **HALT and AskUserQuestion**. Especially for: UI/UX decisions, removing/changing existing elements, any choice with multiple valid options.

## Rule 6: Context Gate (PARAMOUNT)
At 85% context: HALT all work. AskUserQuestion with options (compact/fresh session/push through). Never auto-serialize.

## Rule 7: Anti-Drift
After any commit/PR/phase completion: output remaining work items before accepting new tasks.

## Rule 8: Auto-Cleanup
Delete temporary scripts after task completion. They accumulate and waste context.
