diff --git a/context/design-principles.md b/context/design-principles.md
index 701ace0..bd3e5df 100644
--- a/context/design-principles.md
+++ b/context/design-principles.md
@@ -32,6 +32,12 @@ Commands compose via `Binding::Sequence` — a keymap entry can chain multiple
 commands, each contributing effects independently. The `o` key (add row + begin
 editing) is two commands composed at the binding level, not a monolithic handler.
 
+### Decompose rather than early return
+
+Early Returns usually are a signal of mixed responsibilities: if an early return 
+would clarify a function, consider how the function could be decomposed for the 
+same effect without the early return.
+
 ---
 
 ## 2. Polymorphism Over Conditionals