dotfiles

Manage dotfiles repositories with GNU Stow and Git.

Updated Aug 23, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/ryugen04/dotfiles --skill dotfiles
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: dotfiles
Source: https://github.com/ryugen04/dotfiles/tree/main/packages/claude/.claude/skills/dotfiles
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/ryugen04/dotfiles --skill dotfiles

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you manage a centralized dotfiles repository and apply consistent configurations across multiple machines using stow and a defined workflow. It covers structuring, setup, syncing changes, and maintenance.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Repo structure analysis and auditing: Review your dotfiles layout and verify that essential packages exist under packages/.
  • New machine setup: Clone the repository and run the installer to apply configurations to a fresh system.
  • Syncing changes: Pull updates from other machines and re-apply them to maintain consistency.
  • Maintenance & package management: Manage tool configurations (nvim, shell, etc.) and apply changes via stow.

Quick Start

Run ./install.sh to apply all configured dotfiles to your home directory on a new machine.

Frequently Asked Questions about dotfiles

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I manage dotfiles across multiple machines with synchronization?

Synchronize dotfiles by maintaining a centralized Git repository structured with GNU Stow packages. Clone the repository on each machine and run install.sh to apply configurations, then pull updates from other machines and re-apply stow to keep all systems consistent.

What's the best way to set up dotfiles on a new machine?

Clone your dotfiles repository and execute ./install.sh to automatically apply all configured packages to your home directory. Stow symlinks your packaged configurations without manual file copying.

How does GNU Stow work for managing dotfiles?

Stow creates symbolic links from a centralized package directory to your home directory, avoiding duplication. Organize configs under packages/ and stow applies them uniformly across machines.

Can I use dotfiles management with version control?

Yes. Git tracks your dotfiles repository for version history and cross-machine updates. Push configuration changes from one machine and pull them on others, then re-apply stow to synchronize.

What environment do dotfiles require to work?

Dotfiles require GNU/Linux or macOS with a shell environment, GNU Stow installed, and Git for version control. The provided install.sh automates application on compatible systems.

How do I add or remove tool configurations in my dotfiles?

Manage tool configurations by adding or removing package directories under packages/ for each tool (nvim, shell, etc.), then run stow to apply changes or git push to distribute updates across machines.