Mental Model

“If this model makes sense, continue. If not, TCR is not the right tool.”

State vs. Time

Traditional state management asks: “What is the value right now?” TCR asks: “How did we get here, and where else could we go?”

Intent vs. Event

• An Event is something that happened (passive). e.g., “User clicked button”.
• An Intent is a meaningful desire to change the system (active). e.g., START_CHECKOUT_FLOW.
• TCR records Intents. Intents capture the why, not just the what.

Timeline vs. Log

A Log is a static list of past events. You read it. A Timeline is a navigable territory. You move through it. You can jump back, fork off a new path, or replay it.

Resolution vs. Mutation

In Redux or Zustand, you mutate state directly (or via reducers). In TCR, you resolve intents. An intent might be:

• Recorded: Accepted and applied.
• Superseded: Replaced by a newer, more relevant intent (e.g., rapid typing).
• Discarded: Rejected because it conflicts with logic.

Exploration vs. Transaction

Backend transactions commit or rollback. They are binary. Frontend interaction is an exploration. Users change their minds. They undo. They retry. TCR embraces this non-linear nature.