Developer Guidebook

An attempt to crystalize and disseminate useful wisdom about software development and life.

Dedicated to Anthony Crumley. The information here resulted from interactions with him and from the pursuit of truth he inspires.

Life

• Persevere.
• Be an owner.
• Learn so other people can see you.
• Take frequent walks to think.

People

• Treat every person like they're infinitely valuable.
• Invest in others, especially when you have no time.
• Listening is the best thing you can do for someone.
• Encourage people fast.

Problem-solving

• Understand before taking action.
• Communication matters more than code.
• Fix things twice.
• Have an athletic mindset.
• Use a checklist (even for checklists).
• Build assets, not one-offs.
• Know what normal looks like.

Coding

• Stop doing code reviews.
• Stick to standards and conventions.
• Small refactorings compound.
• Find the flow.