knip

Detect and remove unused files, dependencies, and exports with Knip.

1|Updated Dec 20, 2018

Search Tags:#code quality #refactoring #dependency management #dead code #unused code #knip

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/parkerhendo/home-config --skill knip-parkerhendo

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

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

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill helps identify and remove unused code, dependencies, and exports within a project, leading to a cleaner, more efficient codebase.

Core Features & Use Cases

Unused Code Detection: Finds files, exports, and types that are not imported or used.
Dependency Management: Identifies packages in package.json that are no longer needed.
Use Case: After a large feature is removed, use Knip to automatically clean up all the associated code and dependencies that are no longer referenced, preventing technical debt.

Quick Start

Run knip to find and fix unused code in the current project.

Frequently Asked Questions about knip

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I find and remove unused dependencies in a Node.js project?▼

To find and remove unused dependencies in a Node.js project, you can use Knip to detect unreferenced packages in package.json and orphaned code. It scans your codebase to identify exports and dependencies that are no longer needed.

What is the best way to detect dead code and unused exports in a codebase?▼

The best way to detect dead code and unused exports is using a tool like Knip, which analyzes your project to find files, types, and exports that are not imported or referenced anywhere. This helps eliminate technical debt.

Do I need to install Knip globally to clean up unused files?▼

No, you do not need to install Knip globally. The Skill requires a Node.js environment with Knip installed as a dev dependency in your project to properly detect and remove unused files and dependencies.

Can I automatically clean up orphaned code after removing a large feature?▼

Yes, you can automatically clean up orphaned code after removing a large feature by running Knip. It identifies all associated code, unused exports, and unreferenced packages left behind, preventing accumulated technical debt.

What are the limitations of using Knip for dead code removal?▼

The primary limitation is environment-specific: Knip requires a Node.js environment and must be installed as a dev dependency. It focuses on unreferenced files and dependencies, so dynamic references might not be detected.

Why does unused code and technical debt accumulate in a project?▼

Unused code and technical debt accumulate when large features are removed without cleaning up associated files and dependencies. Knip addresses this by scanning the codebase for orphaned exports and unreferenced packages to keep the project efficient.