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Projects are, well..., projects. You undertake a specific task with certain rules and guidelines. This is almost invariably some sort of composition - composed either individually or as part of a group.
I use rules to focus your minds. Most people find them helpful because they are able to get started more easily. Also, they can take the pressure off composers who feel stylistically challenged, so to speak. It means you have less responsibility for the style you use, which may be helpful if you are unsure of your own voice.
However, there are a number of potential pitfalls, too, and you should be aware of these before starting work on any project.
The rules are what they are, not what you think they are!
Please don't start soul-searching about what you are or aren't allowed to do. Ask questions to begin with, but then, if the rules don't prescribe it, you can do it. If I decide that you shouldn't be doing it, I'll change it in future.
Don't follow the rules slavishly and stifle your own expression.
Some composers use the rules to help get them through the exercise. Don't do this, as the result will be dull and boring. Above all, use the rules to focus your scope, not limit your imagination. If you think about it you'll find that however restrictive they may appear to be at first, there is plenty of room for imagination and expression. Use them both.
Don't second guess what the rules mean in terms of style.
When dealing with stylistic issues you should refer to the document Approaches to Composition, not the rules, unless the latter specifically demand something stylistically. Don't try and guess what I want you to do, do want you want within the parameters laid down. This will invariably be better than doing something you hate doing because you have to do it.