Refactor code by renaming variables, methods, classes, and concepts for clearer intent. Use when asked to improve names, clarify naming, perform a naming pass, or run `/refactor:names`.
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---
name: names
description: Refactor code by renaming variables, methods, classes, and concepts for clearer intent. Use when asked to improve names, clarify naming, perform a naming pass, or run `/refactor:names`.
metadata:
legacy-name: refactor:names
---
# Rename Refactor
Ask the user for the file or directory to refactor. Support multiple files if a directory is provided.
## Process
Work through these steps in order, making a separate commit for each rename:
1. **Rename local variables**
- Replace generic names (data, temp, obj, etc.) with domain-specific terms
- Make names describe behavior and domain purpose
- Follow language conventions (camelCase, snake_case, etc.)
2. **Rename private methods/fields**
- Improve clarity and reveal intent
- Ensure consistency across related names
- Use behavior-focused names
3. **Rename public methods/fields**
- Same as private, but broader impact
- Ensure all references updated throughout codebase
4. **Rename classes/types**
- Highest impact, most careful
- Domain-driven names that reveal purpose
After EACH rename:
- Run tests automatically
- If tests fail, revert the change immediately
- Commit using: `. r rename <old> to <new>`
## Guidelines
- DO NOT CHANGE ANY BEHAVIOR - only improve names
- Use IDE rename refactoring when possible (compile-error driven)
- Ensure all references updated throughout codebase
## Output
- If no names to improve, report "No names to improve"
- Otherwise provide brief summary (e.g., "Renamed 7 variables, 3 methods, 1 class")
## Commit Format
Use Arlo's Commit Notation (ACN):
- `. r rename getData to fetchStockPrices`
- `. r rename userObj to investorProfile`