Duplicate for Alternative Candidates
VCS-DUPLICATE-FOR-ALTERNATIVE-CANDIDATES
Summary
Use jj duplicate when two plausible fixes or refactors need independent validation. Separate candidate changes preserve comparison and recovery without mutating the only option.
Rule
Use jj duplicate for safe alternative candidates.
Why
When comparing two possible fixes or refactor shapes, mutating the only candidate makes it hard to
return to the original. jj duplicate gives an alternative change its own identity while preserving
the first candidate for comparison or recovery.
Helps
- Makes experiments reversible and keeps competing designs reviewable.
Limits
Do not duplicate just to avoid deciding. Use it when two plausible alternatives need independent edits or validation.
Agent Instruction
Use `jj duplicate` for alternative fixes or refactor shapes so the original candidate stays available.Mechanisms
Supported by jj duplicate, separate descriptions, focused validation per candidate, and eventual
abandon or squash of the losing candidate.