Code Refactor Planner

I want to refactor the following code. Before making any changes, give me a plan.

For the plan:
1. Describe what the code currently does (so I can confirm you've understood it correctly).
2. Identify the top problems: duplication, unclear intent, fragile dependencies, missing abstractions, etc.
3. Propose a refactoring sequence. Break it into steps I can do independently and safely.
4. For each step, state: what changes, why it improves things, and what could go wrong.
5. Flag anything that needs a test before refactoring (so I don't break behaviour I can't see).

Do not write the refactored code yet. I want to review the plan first.

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