r-package-development

Structure an R package for production by planning dependencies, defining exported versus internal functions, writing DESCRIPTION metadata, and implementing validation. This approach ensures maintainable architecture and stable API design for reliable releases.

Choose between base R and tidyverse packages by balancing functionality needs against maintenance cost and usability. Evaluating dependency strategy early prevents bloated package requirements and ensures long-term maintainability.

Document exported functions in an R package using roxygen2 by applying consistent documentation rules directly in your code. This generates standard manual pages and ensures API clarity for reliable package usage.

Production-ready R packages require both unit tests and integration tests to validate inputs and verify functionality. Implementing robust testing alongside a release checklist ensures repeatable validation before shipping.

Design a stable API for R package functions by applying tidyverse principles and type-stable patterns. Separating exported functions from internal helpers creates a consistent, modern interface that users can rely on.

An R package release checklist should include running validation checks, verifying roxygen2 documentation, confirming DESCRIPTION metadata, and executing unit and integration tests. This repeatable validation process ensures package reliability before shipping.