api-design

Standardizes REST API design including naming conventions, status codes, error formats, pagination strategies, and versioning policies.

Updated Mar 25, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/SOLEROM/cldlab --skill api-design-solerom
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: api-design
Source: https://github.com/SOLEROM/cldlab/tree/main/ecc/ref_claude/.agents/skills/api-design
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/SOLEROM/cldlab --skill api-design-solerom

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

REST API design patterns solve the problem of inconsistent API contracts, unclear naming, and erratic behavior by providing standard guidelines for resources, status codes, pagination, filtering, error handling, versioning, and rate limiting.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Resource naming conventions
  • HTTP method semantics
  • Status code patterns
  • Pagination, filtering, and sorting
  • Versioning strategies
  • Error handling formats
  • Rate limiting guidelines
  • Use Case: Designing a new public API or auditing an existing contract

Quick Start

Define a new API using the patterns in this guide and apply proper status codes, versioning, and pagination from the start.

Frequently Asked Questions about api-design

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I design consistent REST API resources and naming conventions?

To design consistent REST API resources, you should standardize URL naming conventions and define clear resource structures. This approach ensures predictable endpoint behavior and simplifies contract auditing for production-ready APIs.

What is the best way to handle pagination and filtering in a REST API?

The best way to handle pagination and filtering in a REST API is to implement standard pagination strategies and sorting parameters. This prevents payload bloat and ensures efficient data retrieval across large resource collections.

How do I implement error handling and status code patterns for REST endpoints?

To implement error handling for REST endpoints, apply standard HTTP method semantics and consistent error handling formats. Using proper status code patterns allows clients to programmatically handle failures and understand API responses accurately.

What versioning strategies should I use when designing a new public API?

When designing a new public API, you should establish clear versioning policies and versioning strategies from the start. This ensures backward compatibility and managed endpoint transitions during future contract updates.

How do I audit an existing REST API contract for production readiness?

To audit an existing REST API contract, review the current resources, status codes, and versioning policies against standard guidelines. This process identifies inconsistent naming, erratic behavior, and missing rate limiting guidelines.

Do I need rate limiting guidelines for my REST API design?

Yes, you need rate limiting guidelines for your REST API design to ensure production-grade stability. Defining these limits prevents abuse and manages traffic flow alongside standard error handling formats.