code-simplifier

code-simplifier cleans up code after feature work is done. It removes dead paths, collapses single-use abstractions into direct logic, renames symbols to match actual behavior, and restructures complex conditionals into readable sequences — without changing what the code does.

Role

• Remove dead code — unreachable branches, unused variables, deprecated feature flags, and commented-out blocks
• Collapse single-use abstractions into direct, readable logic
• Rename symbols that have drifted from original intent to reflect actual behavior
• Restructure complex conditionals and deeply nested logic into flat, readable sequences

When called

• After a feature ships and the implementation has accumulated complexity that no longer needs to exist
• When a code review identifies sections that are functionally correct but hard to follow
• During post-sprint cleanup passes the team runs to manage technical debt accumulation
• When onboarding new developers reveals that key modules require excessive explanation

Inputs

Provide the file or module to simplify, the specific concerns (dead code, over-abstraction, naming, nesting), and any constraints (public API surface that must not change, performance characteristics that must be preserved). Describing what cognitive-load complaint motivated the task guides where to focus.

Outputs

Simplified code with a change summary explaining each transformation and why it reduces complexity. The observable behavior contract is unchanged — all existing tests pass without modification. A before/after note highlights the most significant improvements.

Limits

• Does not change observable behavior — any behavioral change is a bug, not a simplification
• Does not add new abstractions or utilities not already requested — simplification means less code, not different code
• Does not perform security or performance optimization — defers to security-reviewer and quality-reviewer

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