diff --git a/CLAUDE.md b/CLAUDE.md
index 4fcfcda..657cb82 100644
--- a/CLAUDE.md
+++ b/CLAUDE.md
@@ -55,4 +55,17 @@ Instructions for Claude Code when working on this project.
     - Automatic editor theme synchronization with UI theme
 
 See `docs/dev-plan.md` for complete roadmap and technical details.
-- when updating documentation, do not record intermediate changes - write them always as a matter-of-fact information
\ No newline at end of file
+
+## Development Principles
+
+- **Iterative**: Each phase produces working, testable functionality
+- **Lean**: No frameworks, no build step, minimal dependencies
+- **Maintainable**: Clean code organization with logical separation of concerns
+- **Simple**: Favor code removal over addition; avoid over-engineering
+
+## General coding instructions 
+Astrolabe is a project with minimalistic philosophy; it tries to avoid external dependencies and complexity, if possible.
+This means that whatever new feature, refactor, or bug fix is being considered, the solution should not be over-engineered unless absolutely necessary. The importance and complexity of a feature defines allowed number of lines of code dedicated to it.
+Pay attention to the existing code base style and approaches and try to adhere to the existing style instead of bringing your own vision.
+When updating documentation, do not record intermediate changes - write them always as a matter-of-fact information.
+When working on the code, if you notice any opportunities to better bring the project to the state above - bring this to user's attention and ask for approval to implement the suggested changes.
diff --git a/project-docs/dev-plan.md b/project-docs/dev-plan.md
index 98abe73..488bad5 100644
--- a/project-docs/dev-plan.md
+++ b/project-docs/dev-plan.md
@@ -410,14 +410,6 @@ Astrolabe is a focused tool for managing, editing, and previewing Vega-Lite visu
     └── storage-examples.md   # Data model specifications
 ```
 
-## Development Principles
-
-- **Iterative**: Each phase produces working, testable functionality
-- **Lean**: No frameworks, no build step, minimal dependencies
-- **Data-first**: Storage schema designed upfront for extensibility
-- **User-focused**: Auto-save, clear state, forgiving UX
-- **Maintainable**: Clean code organization with logical separation of concerns
-- **Simple**: Favor code removal over addition; avoid over-engineering
 
 ## Code Organization