Back to Patterns

Borrow Behaviors

Pattern

Problem

The solution already exists, but it's not in the form we need it, or not where we need it.

Pattern

AI can quickly grab and transform from other sources:

  • Styles from designs (colors, spacing, icons)
  • Patterns from other implementations
  • Code concepts across languages

Give AI an example and it adapts it to your context. Show a JavaScript nullable pattern, get the Python version. Point to a Figma design, get matching CSS. Reference another implementation, get your version.

Example

Design to Code: Designer created Figma mockup to improve design of existing app → Use AI to apply it to your app

Cross-language: Show JavaScript nullables → AI creates Python equivalent with proper idioms

Parallel Borrowing: Created 10 implementations → Pick best parts from each → AI combines them. Really powerful

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