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Dev.to
Dev.to
7/9/2026
Why I'm Simplifying My Side Project Instead of Adding More Features

Why I'm Simplifying My Side Project Instead of Adding More Features

Short summary

After being laid off, a developer revisits their side project StudyTree—a tool for recording and reviewing daily learning—and realizes feature creep made it impossible to describe in one sentence. They're now cutting scope to a core workflow: record what you learned, get AI feedback, identify weak spots, and decide what to learn next. The post is a candid reflection on the value of shipping a small, testable idea over building an all-in-one platform.

  • Developer simplifies side project StudyTree after feature creep made it hard to explain
  • Core workflow retained: learn, record, get AI feedback, find weak spots, review progress
  • Plans to cut scope, rewrite docs, and let a few users test before adding more features

Generated with AI, which can make mistakes.

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