Detect Code Smells

Detect Code Smells

Identify code quality issues, anti-patterns, and maintainability problems that suggest need for refactoring.

When to Use

• Code review before merging
• Identifying refactoring priorities
• Mentoring and code quality improvement
• Planning technical debt reduction

Quick Reference

# Python code smell detection
pip install pylint radon
pylint --disable=all --enable=convention,refactor module.py
radon cc -a module.py  # Cyclomatic complexity
radon mi -s module.py  # Maintainability index

Workflow

1. Scan for patterns: Identify common code smell patterns (long functions, duplication, magic numbers)
2. Check complexity: Measure cyclomatic and cognitive complexity
3. Evaluate naming: Check for unclear variable/function names
4. Review structure: Identify violations of SOLID principles
5. Document findings: List smells with severity and recommendations

Output Format

Code quality report:

• Code smell type (duplication, long method, magic number, etc.)
• Location (file:line)
• Severity (critical/high/medium/low)
• Explanation of the issue
• Suggested fix or refactoring approach

References

• See CLAUDE.md > SOLID principles for design guidance
• See CLAUDE.md > DRY and KISS principles for quality standards
• See refactor-code skill for applying fixes