Writing code is cheap now - Agentic Engineering Patterns
Hacker News
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The article discusses how the advent of coding agents has significantly reduced the cost of writing code, transforming traditional development practices. While coding was once a costly endeavor requiring extensive planning and resource allocation, agentic engineering now offers a more efficient approach. However, the shift presents challenges as it disrupts established habits centered around expensive coding processes.
The key takeaway is that while producing code is cheaper, ensuring "good code" remains essential. Defined by functionality, robust error handling, maintainability, and thorough documentation, good code demands careful attention despite the efficiency gains from agents. The article emphasizes that the cost-effective generation of code necessitates a reevaluation of development strategies.
For those in tech, this shift underscores the importance of adapting to new tools and practices without compromising on code quality. The challenge lies in balancing the speed offered by coding agents with the thoroughness required for reliable software. As teams adopt these technologies, they must evolve their habits to leverage efficiency while maintaining high standards, making this a critical consideration for anyone involved in tech development today.
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Originally published on Hacker News on 2/23/2026