kolt-usage

Configure Kotlin projects without Gradle using kolt to compile, cache, and run applications.

2|Updated Apr 8, 2026

Search Tags:#kotlin #project-setup #command-line #dependency-management #build-tool #kolt #kolt.toml

Ready to run

npx skills add https://github.com/snicmakino/kolt --skill kolt-usage

💬 Prompt for ChatGPT / Claude Chat▼

Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: kolt-usage
Source: https://github.com/snicmakino/kolt/tree/main/.claude/skills/kolt-usage
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/snicmakino/kolt --skill kolt-usage

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

kolt provides a lightweight Kotlin build workflow that eliminates the need for heavy Gradle-based tooling by offering a fast, single-binary build experience and TOML-based configuration for Kotlin projects.

Core Features & Use Cases

Lightweight, single-binary Kotlin build tool with instant startup and incremental builds.
TOML-based configuration via kolt.toml, enabling straightforward project setup and customization.
Rich command surface (init, build, run, test, check, fmt, clean, deps, toolchain, daemon) with support for watch modes and cross-target builds (JVM/native).
Ideal for bootstrapping new Kotlin projects quickly, managing dependencies, and streamlining common workflows without Gradle.

Quick Start

Initialize a new project with kolt init, then build and run using kolt build and kolt run.

Frequently Asked Questions about kolt-usage

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

FAQPage Schema

How do I set up a Kotlin project without Gradle?▼

You can set up a Kotlin project without Gradle by using kolt, a fast single-binary build tool. Run kolt init to bootstrap the project, configure settings in kolt.toml, then use kolt build and kolt run.

What is kolt.toml and how does it manage Kotlin dependencies?▼

kolt.toml is a TOML-based configuration file used by kolt to manage Kotlin project dependencies and setup. It provides a straightforward alternative to Gradle build scripts for customizing project configurations.

Can I build and run Kotlin applications for native targets?▼

Yes, kolt supports cross-target builds for both JVM and native Kotlin applications. You can use kolt build and kolt run commands to compile and execute applications across different target environments.

What is the best lightweight alternative to Gradle for Kotlin builds?▼

kolt is a lightweight single-binary build tool ideal for Kotlin builds without Gradle. It offers instant startup, incremental builds, and a rich command surface including init, build, run, test, and formatting.

How do I run tests and format code in a kolt project?▼

Use kolt test to run tests and kolt fmt to format code in your Kotlin project. These commands are part of kolt's rich command surface designed to streamline common development workflows.

Does kolt support watch modes for quick Kotlin development iterations?▼

Yes, kolt supports watch modes for quick iterations during Kotlin development. Combined with its incremental build capabilities and daemon command, it enables rapid feedback loops without Gradle overhead.