Four-phase debugging framework that ensures root cause investigation before attempting fixes. Never jump to solutions.
- Major update: Introduces a comprehensive four-phase (plus pre-phase) debugging process focused on root cause analysis before any fixes. - Adds a mandatory Phase 0: Context Recall—explicitly requires gathering prior knowledge and analyzing project context before investigating or proposing fixes. - Clearly defines strict phase order (Context Recall → Root Cause Investigation → Pattern Analysis → Hypothesis & Testing → Implementation) with rules to prevent skipping steps or guessing fixes. - Expands guidance for multi-component systems, systematic data/log gathering, and evidence-based analysis. - Includes red flags and common rationalizations to help users avoid pitfalls and maintain disciplined debugging. - Emphasizes test creation before fixing and sets hard limits on repeated failed fixes (triggers architectural review after three non-working attempts).