cli-patterns

Design reusable Cobra CLI patterns with consistent command structures and flag conventions.

3|5|Updated Mar 19, 2026

Search Tags:#cli #go #error-handling #cobra #help-text #command-patterns #flag-conventions

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npx skills add https://github.com/ronniegeraghty/hyoka --skill cli-patterns-ronniegeraghty

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: cli-patterns
Source: https://github.com/ronniegeraghty/hyoka/tree/main/.agents/skills/cli-patterns
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ronniegeraghty/hyoka --skill cli-patterns-ronniegeraghty

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This guideline provides a standardized approach to building Cobra-based CLIs with consistent command structures, flag naming, and robust error handling.

Core Features & Use Cases

Consistent command structure across the cmd/ package with clear RunE patterns.
Standardized flag naming conventions (kebab-case, short flags) and helpful usage text.
Reusable patterns for common commands (run, list, validate, serve) and structured error handling.

Quick Start

Create a new Cobra command following these patterns and run it locally to verify behavior.

Frequently Asked Questions about cli-patterns

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I structure consistent command patterns in a Go CLI using Cobra?▼

To structure consistent command patterns in a Go CLI using Cobra, define a reusable layout enforcing standardized RunE execution flows, kebab-case flag naming, and clear help text across your cmd/ package.

What is the best way to handle errors and flag conventions in Cobra commands?▼

The best way to handle errors and flag conventions in Cobra commands is to enforce a required RunE execution flow that standardizes error handling and mandates kebab-case flag naming with appropriate short flags.

How do I organize common commands like run, list, validate, and serve in Go?▼

You organize common commands like run, list, validate, and serve in Go by applying a standardized Cobra pattern that dictates code organization, validation guidance, and consistent command structures.

Do I need to follow specific flag naming conventions when building Go CLI applications?▼

Yes, you need to follow specific flag naming conventions when building Go CLI applications, utilizing kebab-case for flags and defining short flags to ensure standardized usage text and reliable command execution.

Can I enforce standardized help text across multiple commands in a Cobra CLI?▼

You can enforce standardized help text across multiple commands in a Cobra CLI by applying a reusable pattern that specifies required conventions for command structures, flag naming, and usage descriptions.

Why should I use RunE instead of Run for command execution in Cobra?▼

You should use RunE instead of Run for command execution in Cobra to enable structured error handling, allowing the CLI pattern to return errors directly through the execution flow rather than manually exiting.