A "rule" is binding; "guidance" is less strict as any lawyer will be able to tell you. So that definition is plainly wrong: you cannot have "rules" giving "guidance".
Take the following example:
- a "speed limit" sign is a rule: you may not go faster.
- A "signpost" is a guidance: you are free to ignore the directions to your destination (and you will probably get lost, but that is besides the question here)
CountZero
A program should be light and agile, its subroutines connected like a string of pearls. The spirit and intent of the program should be retained throughout. There should be neither too little or too much, neither needless loops nor useless variables, neither lack of structure nor overwhelming rigidity." - The Tao of Programming, 4.1 - Geoffrey James
