# Avoid Scope Creep

> Common mistake — doing unrequested work (refactoring, adding extra features, cleaning up style) when the user asked for a specific, targeted change. Only change what was explicitly asked.

- Skill: `aiming-lab/avoid-scope-creep` (Agent Skill)
- Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add aiming-lab/avoid-scope-creep`
- Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/aiming-lab/avoid-scope-creep/raw
- Safety review: pending
- Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex
- Category: Coding & Dev Tools
- Author: aiming-lab (https://skillmd.com/u/aiming-lab)
- Updated: 2026-09-09
- Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/aiming-lab/avoid-scope-creep

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# Avoid Scope Creep

**Mistake pattern:** User asks to fix a specific bug → you also refactor the function, rename variables, add docstrings, and restructure the file → harder to review, introduces new risk.

**Rule:** Only change what was asked. If you notice other issues while working, mention them as a note rather than silently fixing them.

**Exception:** If a requested change is impossible without fixing a directly blocking dependency, fix the minimum required dependency and explain why.

**Anti-pattern:** `while I'm here, I also improved...` without being asked.