tools-only Lightweight Implementation Analysis Protocol
Quick understanding before implementation - just enough to guide TDD, no more.
When This Activates
Before creating implementation plans, fix plans, or TDD cycles for bugs/features.
The Protocol (3 Quick Steps)
1. Trace the Flow
Answer these:
- Which event/request triggers this?
- Which file:line handles it?
- Where does the error occur (file:line)?
2. Quick Diagram
Simple class.method() flow with relevant data:
Event: EventName
↓ (contains: relevant fields)
Class.method() [file:line]
↓ (what it does)
Class.method() [file:line] ← 💥 Error here
↓
Result: What happens
Keep it short - 5-10 lines max.
3. Verify
Ask: "Here's the flow: [diagram]. Correct?"
Wait for confirmation, then proceed.
Example
Problem: Email validation failing
Event: user.email.updated
↓ (email: "invalid@")
UpdateUserEmailHandler.execute() [line 281]
↓ (validates email format)
EmailValidator.parse() [line 289] ← 💥 Throws ValidationError
↓
Result: Error response
Current: Throws
Should: Use safeParse(), return validation error
Rules
- Keep it lightweight - This isn't detailed planning, just enough to know what to test
- Be specific - File:line, not abstractions
- Get confirmation - Don't proceed without it
- Skip for trivial changes - Typos, formatting, docs
Anti-Pattern
❌ WRONG: "I'll fix the validation. Here's my plan..." ✅ RIGHT: "Let me trace where the error occurs... [diagram]. Correct?"