My LLM coding workflow going into 2026 (addyosmani.com)

In a recent reflection on the evolution of coding workflows, developers have found that effectively utilizing AI coding assistants—such as Claude Code and others—requires a structured, disciplined approach. In 2025, the integration of large language models (LLMs) into the coding process significantly transformed software development, with engineers relying heavily on these tools to write code. However, the author emphasizes that to harness this potential fully, developers must establish clear specifications and a well-thought-out workflow that treats LLMs not as autonomous coders, but as collaborative partners needing precise guidance. Key strategies highlighted include starting coding efforts with a detailed project specification generated with the LLM's assistance, breaking work into smaller, manageable tasks to ensure clarity and prevent confusion, and providing extensive context to the AI. Additionally, the adoption of various coding LLMs tailored to specific tasks is encouraged, with a focus on selecting the model that best aligns with the task at hand. As developers move into 2026, the trend of AI-assisted engineering is becoming integral, pairing human oversight with advanced AI capabilities to enhance productivity while maintaining accountability in software development.