api-design

Design RESTful APIs with resource modeling, HTTP methods, status codes, versioning, authentication, and error handling.

Updated May 26, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/dinoudon/udon-collective-skills --skill api-design-dinoudon
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: api-design
Source: https://github.com/dinoudon/udon-collective-skills/tree/main/skills/quality/api-design
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/dinoudon/udon-collective-skills --skill api-design-dinoudon

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill requires , and includes scripts (resource) and references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill ensures that you design APIs that are easy to use, intuitive, and consistent, which improves developer experience and enhances API adoption and maintainability.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Resource Modeling: Follows best practices in resource naming, hierarchies, and collection management.
  • HTTP Methods: Provides guidelines for the correct use of HTTP verbs for different types of requests.
  • Status Codes: Details the use of HTTP status codes to provide clear feedback to API consumers.
  • Versioning: Covers various versioning strategies and the importance of deprecation policies.
  • Authentication: Explains different authentication methods for securing API access.
  • Error Handling: Outlines best practices for creating helpful error messages and response formats.
  • Documentation: Offers guidelines on creating comprehensive API documentation with OpenAPI/Swagger.
  • Use Case: If you're building a public API for third-party developers or internal microservices, this Skill ensures a smooth developer experience by focusing on consistency and documentation.

Quick Start

Implement RESTful API design for your project by following the 7-Pillar API Design Framework outlined in this Skill unit.

Frequently Asked Questions about api-design

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
What is the best way to design a RESTful API for third-party developers?

Designing RESTful APIs requires prioritizing consistency, simplicity, and security. Following a structured framework ensures intuitive resource structuring, appropriate HTTP methods, and comprehensive documentation for a smooth developer experience.

How do I choose the correct HTTP status codes for my API error handling?

Choosing HTTP status codes for API error handling involves providing clear feedback to consumers. You must map errors to the correct HTTP status codes and pair them with helpful, well-structured error message formats to avoid common API design mistakes.

What are the best practices for REST API versioning and deprecation?

REST API versioning best practices involve evaluating various versioning strategies and establishing clear deprecation policies. Proper versioning ensures maintainability and prevents breaking changes for existing API consumers when updating resources or methods.

How do I structure resources and collections in a RESTful API?

Structuring resources in a RESTful API follows best practices in resource naming, hierarchies, and collection management. Consistent resource modeling combined with correct HTTP verb usage ensures your API endpoints remain intuitive and easy to consume.

Does this API design framework include guidelines for OpenAPI documentation?

Yes, this API design framework includes guidelines for creating comprehensive API documentation with OpenAPI and Swagger. Proper documentation ensures your API endpoints, authentication methods, and error handling are easily understood by developers.

What authentication methods should I use to secure my RESTful API?

Securing RESTful APIs requires evaluating different authentication methods to protect API access. Choosing the appropriate authentication mechanism is a core pillar of API design, ensuring that your resources and collections remain safe from unauthorized requests.