precise-naming

Applies specification-grade vocabulary when naming code symbols, files, commands, and interface text.

Updated Apr 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/sndrgrdn/skills --skill precise-naming-sndrgrdn
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: precise-naming
Source: https://github.com/sndrgrdn/skills/tree/main/precise-naming
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/sndrgrdn/skills --skill precise-naming-sndrgrdn

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? Codebases and products accumulate vague, casual, or cute names like push_dashboards.sh or "You're in!" that confuse engineers and users. This Skill enforces precise, professional vocabulary so every name denotes the actual domain concept, operation, or state. ## Core Features & Use Cases - Symbol and File Naming: Renames code symbols, files, and directories with literal, exact terms (e.g., deploy_dashboards.sh instead of push_dashboards.sh). - Interface and Status Text: Rewrites UI labels, statuses, and events in formal register (e.g., "Registration Complete" instead of "You're in!"). - Commit and Branch Naming: Applies the same specification-grade standard to commits, branches, and commands. - Use Case: While refactoring a payments module, rename Move Money to Transfer Funds and update all related events, statuses, and interface text to match the formal domain vocabulary. ## Quick Start Review the names in this module and rename any vague or casual symbols, files, and interface text using precise professional vocabulary.

Frequently Asked Questions about precise-naming

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I choose better names for code symbols and files?▼

Name the actual domain concept, operation, or state using precise professional vocabulary an engineer would put in a formal specification. Prefer literal denotation over slang or metaphor, and use the shortest exact name, such as `deploy_dashboards.sh` instead of `push_dashboards.sh`.

What is specification-grade vocabulary in naming?▼

It is the register a careful engineer would use in a formal specification, sometimes called the 1972 IBM engineer test. It defines tone rather than a historical word limit, so established technical terms remain valid while casual chat phrasing is rejected.

Does precise naming apply to UI text and commit messages?▼

Yes, the same standard covers interface text, statuses, events, commits, and branches. For example, use "Registration Complete" instead of "You're in!" and "System Failure" instead of "Something is broken".

When should I avoid clever or metaphorical names?▼

Avoid cute or clever metaphors whenever a literal term exists for the concept. Metaphors obscure meaning for new readers and translators, while literal names like "Transfer Funds" communicate the operation immediately.

Are established technical terms allowed under this naming standard?▼

Yes, established technical terms remain valid because the standard defines register, not a restricted historical vocabulary. The goal is precision and professionalism, not avoiding modern terminology.