project-setup

Create private GitHub repositories with branch protections, license, and README.

23|2|Updated Jan 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/dwmkerr/claude-toolkit --skill project-setup-dwmkerr
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: project-setup
Source: https://github.com/dwmkerr/claude-toolkit/tree/main/plugins/dwmkerr/skills/project-setup
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/dwmkerr/claude-toolkit --skill project-setup-dwmkerr

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This skill automates creating a standardized GitHub project scaffold so teams can spin up private repositories with governance, licensing, and documentation without manual configuration.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Repository creation: Create a private repository with a clear description and initial clone for local work.
  • Governance setup: Enforce branch protections and squash-merges to ensure safe collaboration.
  • Standard artifacts: Include an MIT License and a basic README with an intro and quickstart for new contributors.
  • Use Case: When onboarding a new project, run this skill to establish the baseline structure and keep consistency across multiple repos.

Quick Start

gh repo create <repo-name> --private --description "<short description>" --clone gh api repos/dwmkerr/<repo-name> --method PATCH --field "has_issues=true" --field "has_projects=true"

Frequently Asked Questions about project-setup

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I automate GitHub repository creation with branch protection and a license?

To automate GitHub repository creation, use a skill that creates a private repo, configures branch protections, applies an MIT License, and commits a README. This standardizes project scaffolding and enforces governance settings automatically via the GitHub CLI and API.

What is the best way to set up consistent GitHub project scaffolding across multiple repos?

The best way to set up consistent GitHub project scaffolding is automating repo creation with standardized private repositories, branch protections, squash-merge rules, and initial documentation. This ensures uniform governance and onboarding structures across multiple software team repositories.

Do I need GitHub CLI and API access to configure branch protections and repo settings?

Yes, you need GitHub CLI and API access to create repositories and configure branch protections. The skill uses the CLI to clone the private repo and the API to patch repository settings like enabling issues and projects for governance.

Can I use GitHub CLI to create a private repo with an MIT License and README?

Yes, you can use GitHub CLI to create a private repository and clone it locally. The skill automates committing initial files like an MIT License and a basic README, providing a quickstart guide to establish baseline project structure for new contributors.

What governance features are included in an automated GitHub project setup?

Automated GitHub project setup includes governance features like private repository creation, branch protection rules, and squash-merge enforcement. These settings ensure safe collaboration and standardized onboarding conventions across software engineering teams.

Does this project setup skill work for onboarding new software engineering projects?

Yes, this project setup skill is designed for onboarding new software engineering projects. It establishes baseline repository structures by creating private repos with consistent governance, licensing, and README documentation to maintain consistency across teams.