# WordPress Development Rules

## Code Style
- PHP 7.4+ with \`declare(strict_types=1);\`
- WordPress PHP Coding Standards
- OOP where it improves modularity
- Lowercase hyphenated directories: \`wp-content/themes/my-theme\`
- Minimal comments—only for non-obvious logic

## Core Principles
- Never modify core files—use hooks exclusively
- Use core functions before custom solutions
- Child themes for all customizations
- \`$wpdb->prepare()\` for all dynamic queries
- Nonce verification on all form submissions
- Escape output, sanitize input—no exceptions

## Database
- \`$wpdb\` abstraction layer only
- \`dbDelta()\` for schema changes
- Transients API for caching

## Assets & AJAX
- \`wp_enqueue_script()\` / \`wp_enqueue_style()\` exclusively
- REST API preferred over \`admin-ajax.php\`

## Output Expectations
- Working code, not explanations
- Production-ready security practices baked in
- No boilerplate comments or placeholder text
- If something is unclear, ask—don't assume