Overview

Good documentation is essential in software development, visualizing a coder’s intent and guiding users and contributors through the project effectively. This documentation guideline serves as a useful boilerplate template and instructional resource for developers to create well-structured and comprehensive documentation for their codebases. Whether you are writing the README for a new project or improving existing documentation, this guide offers practical advice and templates to streamline the process and ensure clarity.

Efficient documentation not only depends on correct grammar and formatting but also on the ability to present information in a logical order. With this guide, developers can cultivate the right habits for documenting their work, keeping it accessible and engaging for all users, regardless of their technical background.

Features

Easy Template Usage: This guideline includes a boilerplate template that can easily be customized to suit various projects, simplifying the documentation process.
Clarity and Structure: Emphasizes creating well-ordered documentation with a clear table of contents, ensuring readers can easily navigate through the information.
Markdown Support: Written in Markdown format, the guide is accessible to those familiar with Markdown, making it easy to write and refine documentation.
Real-World Examples: Offers practical, real-life examples of both good and bad documentation practices, helping developers understand the impact of their choices.
User-Centric Wording: Encourages writing for the “dumbest assumable user,” promoting language that is simple and easy to understand for all readers.
Focus on Grammar and Spelling: Stresses the importance of proper grammar and spelling to enhance professionalism and credibility in documentation.
Contribution and Acknowledgment: Provides guidance on how contributors can enhance documentation further, along with sections dedicated to giving credit where it’s due.
Open BSD License: The guideline operates under a BSD License, facilitating its use and modification across various projects without stringent restrictions.

Alex Lechner

Documentation Guideline