How to review AI-written code: a practical checklist

AI agents write code quickly, but you must check it. Use this checklist before you accept any change.

Fast is not the same as correct

An AI coding agent can produce a lot of code in seconds. Your job is to make sure it does what you wanted, safely.

The checklist

Does it do what I asked? Run it and try the main path.
Did it change only what it should? Read the list of modified files.
Are there tests? If not, ask for them, then run them.
What about edge cases? Empty input, very large input, wrong input.
Is anything risky? Look for secrets in code, deleted files and commands that change data.
Can I explain it? If you cannot, ask the agent to explain until you can.

Keep changes small

Small steps are easier to review. If a change is large, ask the agent to split it up.

Use version control

Commit before and after each change so that undoing a mistake takes seconds.

The habit that pays off

Debugging, testing and reviewing are the skills that separate people who use AI well from people who are surprised by it.

Learn it hands-on

Our course Claude Code from Scratch takes you through this step by step, with real exercises. Message us on WhatsApp at +212 607 740 464 and we will create your account.