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cli-spec

Design CLI commands, flags, help text, and output formats.

8|4|Updated Jan 15, 2026
Search Tags:#automation#design#specification#cli#ux#command-line
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/jscraik/Agent-Skills --skill cli-spec
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: cli-spec
Source: https://github.com/jscraik/Agent-Skills/tree/main/backend/cli-spec
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/jscraik/Agent-Skills --skill cli-spec

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

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

What problem does it solve?

This Skill addresses the challenge of designing clear, consistent, and user-friendly command-line interfaces (CLIs) for software applications. It helps ensure that CLIs are intuitive for humans to use and robust for automation.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • CLI Specification: Define commands, flags, arguments, and their behavior.
  • Output & Error Handling: Design predictable output formats (like JSON) and clear error reporting.
  • Use Case: When developing a new command-line tool, use this Skill to generate a comprehensive specification document outlining all user-facing aspects, ensuring a high-quality and consistent user experience from the start.

Quick Start

Use the cli-spec skill to design a CLI for managing user profiles, including commands for create, read, update, and delete.

Frequently Asked Questions about cli-spec

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I design a command-line interface for a new tool?▼

Designing a command-line interface involves specifying commands, flags, arguments, and output formats to ensure intuitive human interaction and reliable automation. This skill drafts the complete CLI surface area and UX behavior based on established standards.

What is the best way to structure CLI output and error reporting for automation?▼

Structuring CLI output and error reporting requires predictable formats like JSON and clear error messages. This skill designs consistent output schemas and error handling rules to make command-line interfaces robust for automated parsing.

Can I use this to refactor an existing CLI for better usability?▼

Yes, you can use this to refactor an existing CLI for better usability. The skill reviews current command-line interfaces and proposals, checking for consistency in flags, commands, and help text to improve the overall user experience.

Do I need to follow specific standards when specifying CLI commands and flags?▼

You need to follow established CLI design standards and best practices when specifying commands and flags. This ensures the command-line interface remains consistent, predictable, and usable for both human operators and automation scripts.

How do I generate a complete CLI specification document including help text?▼

To generate a CLI specification document, you define all user-facing aspects including commands, flags, arguments, and help text. This skill drafts these comprehensive specifications to establish a high-quality user experience from the start.

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