stata-c-plugins

Develop C/C++ plugins for Stata using the stplugin.h SDK.

275|80|Updated Feb 6, 2026
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/dylantmoore/stata-skill --skill stata-c-plugins
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: stata-c-plugins
Source: https://github.com/dylantmoore/stata-skill/tree/main/skills/stata-c-plugins
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/dylantmoore/stata-skill --skill stata-c-plugins

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes references (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

This Skill enables the development of high-performance C/C++ plugins for Stata, allowing users to accelerate Stata commands, translate existing packages, and build custom functionalities.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Plugin Development: Guides users through the entire lifecycle of creating Stata plugins using the stplugin.h SDK.
  • Performance Optimization: Covers techniques like threading, pre-sorted indices, and efficient RNG for maximum speed.
  • Translation Workflow: Provides a structured approach to porting Python or R packages into Stata plugins, leveraging existing C++ backends when available.
  • Use Case: A data scientist needs to implement a novel machine learning algorithm in Stata that requires high-performance computation. They can use this Skill to develop a C++ plugin that integrates seamlessly with Stata, offering near-native execution speed.

Quick Start

Use the stata-c-plugins skill to develop a Stata plugin that accelerates a Stata command with C++.

Frequently Asked Questions about stata-c-plugins

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I build high-performance Stata C/C++ plugins?

To build high-performance Stata C/C++ plugins, you use the stplugin.h SDK to handle data flow, manage memory safety, and compile cross-platform binaries, which are then distributed via net install. This provides near-native execution speed within Stata.

What is the best way to port a Python package to Stata?

The best way to port a Python package to Stata is by wrapping its existing C++ backend using the stplugin.h SDK. This translation workflow allows you to write C from scratch or leverage existing libraries for seamless integration as a Stata plugin.

How do I optimize Stata plugin performance for heavy computation?

You optimize Stata plugin performance by utilizing threading, pre-sorted indices, and efficient random number generation within your C++ code. These techniques ensure maximum execution speed for heavy data processing tasks.

Does Stata support calling C++ code directly through an SDK?

Yes, Stata supports calling C++ code directly through the stplugin.h SDK. You compile C/C++ plugins and wrap them with .ado files to integrate seamlessly, allowing you to accelerate commands and build custom functionalities.

Can I distribute Stata plugins to other users?

Yes, you can distribute Stata plugins to other users via the net install command. This allows others to easily download and install your compiled C/C++ plugin packages and .ado wrappers for their own use.

How do I debug and manage memory safety in Stata C plugins?

You manage memory safety and debug Stata C plugins by following structured development practices within the stplugin.h SDK environment. This ensures stable data flow and prevents crashes during heavy computation.