just

Automate task execution and project orchestration using Justfiles.

40|12|Updated Oct 17, 2011

Search Tags:#task automation #recipes #scripts #just #makefiles

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/lanej/dotfiles --skill just

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: just
Source: https://github.com/lanej/dotfiles/tree/main/claude/skills/just
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/lanej/dotfiles --skill just

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps you automate tasks with Justfiles, promoting simple, readable recipes and delegating complex logic to scripts.

Core Features & Use Cases

Justfiles over Makefiles: Prefer Just for new projects and task automation.
Simple recipes: Keep recipe definitions concise and readable.
Delegation pattern: Move complex logic into external scripts rather than embedding in recipes.
Recipe orchestration: Define dependencies and environment, enabling predictable automation.

Quick Start

Just run the default recipe or a named recipe:

Example: just build
Example: just test

Frequently Asked Questions about just

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I automate tasks with Justfiles instead of Makefiles?▼

Justfiles automate command-driven task execution with simpler, more readable syntax than Makefiles. Define recipes with dependencies, variables, and environment handling, then run them with `just recipe-name`. Just prioritizes straightforward orchestration over embedded logic.

What's the best way to structure recipes in a Justfile?▼

Keep recipes concise and focused on orchestration, delegating complex logic to external scripts. Use recipe dependencies to chain tasks, set working directories and environment variables, and apply attributes like `ignore-errors` or `confirm` to control execution behavior.

Can I run multiple Justfiles or private recipes in a project?▼

Yes. Justfiles support multiple recipe files, private recipes (prefixed with underscore), arguments, and cross-recipe dependencies. This enables flexible project orchestration across different environments and task categories.

Do I need Makefiles if I'm using Justfiles?▼

No. Just is designed as a modern replacement for Makefiles in new projects. It provides cleaner syntax, better recipe composition, and native support for arguments and environment management without Makefile complexity.

How do I list and run available recipes in a Justfile?▼

Run `just` to list all recipes or `just --list` for details. Execute a specific recipe with `just recipe-name` and pass arguments with `just recipe-name arg1 arg2`. The default recipe runs when you invoke `just` with no arguments.

What are the limitations when delegating logic to scripts from Justfiles?▼

Justfiles are orchestration tools; avoid embedding business logic in recipes. Scripts handle complex operations, but recipe attributes control error handling and user interaction. Ensure scripts are executable and accessible from your working directory.