Exploit
Obey every word; defeat the point; then fix the words.
Exactly A2, exactly two colours, unreadable on purpose.
Seen in Jason M. Allen, Théâtre D'opéra Spatial, Colorado State Fair, 2022
Try it on your work
Take the constraints of a brief you are working to (size, materials, deadline) and make a version that meets every one exactly and misses the point entirely. Then add one line to the brief that would have prevented it. Stop after that one line.
Read a rule you work under, such as a style guide or a submission form, and write the reply that obeys every word and defeats its purpose. Then rewrite the rule in one sentence to close the gap. Stop at one rewrite.
Two people swap the rules of a small game each has written, and each finds the most literal way to win the other's. Each then adds one amendment to their own rules. Stop after one amendment each.
How it has been used
Meet every word of the brief and none of its intent: the poster that is exactly A2, exactly two colours, exactly on time, and unreadable by design; the rule followed so literally it stops working. Then rewrite the rule so the exploit is closed. The move forbids breaking the letter: the moment a word of the rule is bent, it is disobedience, not exploit, and the finding is lost.
Where it leads
Grouped under Let me find out what holds up