Refactoring Create.xyz Code for Production

Create.xyz backend route handlers typically mix database queries, business logic, and response formatting in one function. The frontend makes direct API calls from components without a shared API client layer. Error handling is inconsistent across routes

Create a mongoose model layer that encapsulates all database operations. Create route handler functions that call the model layer, not raw mongoose queries. Create a frontend API client module. Standardize error response format across all routes

Not all Create.xyz code needs refactoring. If it works, is secure, and you don't need to modify it, leave it alone. Refactor when: you need to add features and the current structure makes it difficult, bugs keep appearing in the same area of code, or onboarding new developers takes too long because the code is hard to understand.

The golden rule of refactoring: behavior stays the same, structure changes. Before refactoring any code, make sure you have tests covering the current behavior (or add them first). Refactor in small steps — change one thing at a time and verify the app still works. Use version control (git) to commit after each successful change so you can revert if something breaks.

A well-organized project has a predictable structure where anyone can find what they're looking for. Group files by feature (not by type), keep related code together, and use clear naming. Every file should have a single clear purpose. If you can't describe what a file does in one sentence, it's probably doing too much and should be split.