How to Objectively Evaluate Free AI Coding Models Before Using Them Daily

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A developer-focused evaluation method proposes running a fixed battery of five task types — bug localization, feature addition, refactoring, explanation, and test writing — to assess free AI coding models systematically. Each task is run three times using identical prompts, with responses scored on a 0-to-3 rubric, producing 15 scored runs per model. The approach emphasizes that score distribution matters more than averages, since inconsistent models are unreliable daily tools even if they occasionally perform well. Results, prompts, and scores are logged in a reusable file so models can be compared over time against a personal baseline. The method is designed to take roughly one hour and replace gut-feel assessments with reproducible, evidence-based conclusions.

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