Extract Concept Helpers
REFACTORING-EXTRACT-CONCEPT-HELPERS
Summary
Extract helpers when the new function names a real concept boundary with a stable purpose. Hiding a few lines behind a weak name adds a jump without reducing the readers burden.
Rule
Extract helpers only when they reveal a real concept boundary.
Why
A helper should reduce the reader's burden by naming a concept, not merely hide three lines. If the
extracted function has a purpose such as parse_header, normalize_path, or render_status, the
call site becomes clearer; if it is just do_stuff, it adds a jump.
Helps
- Improves local reasoning by replacing low-level steps with a meaningful name.
Limits
Keep code inline when the sequence is already clearer than a new helper. Extract when the helper has a stable concept, limited inputs, and a useful name.
Agent Instruction
Extract helpers only for real concept boundaries, not just to hide a few lines from the reader.Mechanisms
Supported by automated extract refactorings, compiler checks, tests around extracted behavior, and review that asks whether the helper name carries real meaning.