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dixonwille
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dotfiles-overview

Explain dotfiles repository structure and configuration organization.

Updated Jun 9, 2017
Search Tags:#dotfiles#environment#symlinks#stow#config-management#xdg#private-submodule
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/dixonwille/.dotfiles --skill dotfiles-overview
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: dotfiles-overview
Source: https://github.com/dixonwille/.dotfiles/tree/main/.claude/skills/dotfiles-overview
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/dixonwille/.dotfiles --skill dotfiles-overview

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve? This section helps users quickly understand how a dotfiles repository is organized and where to find configurations, scripts, and submodules.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Directory pattern: application configs live under package/.config/package/, which is symlinked to ~/.config
  • Key components: binaries in bin/.local/bin, private submodule in personal/, and submodules for plugins
  • Privacy and maintenance: private data isolated in the personal submodule; environment-specific folders like hyprland and wsl

Quick Start Review the repository layout and example patterns to quickly understand where each configuration lives and how to navigate.

Frequently Asked Questions about dotfiles-overview

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I organize my dotfiles repository for multiple environments?▼

Manage private dotfiles by isolating sensitive data in a personal submodule. This keeps private configurations separated from the main repository while maintaining standard symlink structure for public configs.

How does symlink configuration management work with XDG directories?▼

Symlink configuration management maps package directories structured as package/.config/package/ directly to ~/.config. This follows XDG specifications while keeping the repository organized by application.

What is the best way to manage private submodules in a dotfiles setup?▼

Manage private dotfiles by isolating sensitive data in a personal submodule. This keeps private configurations separated from the main repository while maintaining standard symlink structure for public configs.

How do I structure dotfiles to include custom binaries and plugin submodules?▼

Structure dotfiles by placing custom binaries in bin/.local/bin and integrating plugin submodules within the repository. Application configs follow the package/.config/package/ pattern for consistent symlink management.

Can I use GNU Stow to manage symlinks for my XDG configuration files?▼

GNU Stow can manage symlinks for XDG configuration files by linking package/.config/package/ directories to ~/.config. This approach maintains a clean repository layout while automating deployment across environments.

Why do I need a SKILL.md file in my dotfiles repository?▼

A SKILL.md file with YAML frontmatter provides documentation for dotfiles repository structure, enabling onboarding, audits, and troubleshooting. It clarifies where configurations, scripts, and submodules are located.

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