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OODA vs REPL Development Loops

> observe_orient_decide_act() || read_eval_print_loop()

Two mental models for AI coding loops. OODA for strategic debugging, REPL for exploratory development. Learn when to use each and how to combine them.

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Expansion Guides

// from reactive coding to deliberate loops

01

OODA for Complex Debugging Sessions

Strategic decision loops for hard bugs

Stop thrashing between AI suggestions. Apply OODA loops (Observe-Orient-Decide-Act) to structure debugging. Build situational awareness, form hypotheses, test deliberately, and adapt based on results.

OODA Loop Debugging Strategy Hypothesis Testing Situational Awareness
02

REPL-Style AI Exploration Patterns

Interactive experimentation with AI feedback

Treat AI like a REPL: try code, get immediate feedback, iterate rapidly. Learn when fast iteration beats careful planning. Build muscle memory for exploratory coding with AI as your interactive environment.

REPL Pattern Fast Iteration Exploration Feedback Loops
03

Hybrid Loops: Combining Both Models

When to switch between OODA and REPL

The best developers switch between models fluidly. Start with REPL exploration, transition to OODA when stuck. Recognize the signals that tell you to change loops and build hybrid workflows.

Hybrid Workflows Loop Transitions Adaptive Strategy Pattern Recognition

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