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timestamp

Generate deterministic YYYYMMDDHHMMSS timestamps using the Bash date command.

4|Updated Oct 6, 2025
Search Tags:#logging#bash#shell#deterministic#timestamp
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/otrebu/agents --skill timestamp
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: timestamp
Source: https://github.com/otrebu/agents/tree/main/plugins/basic-skills/skills/timestamp
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/otrebu/agents --skill timestamp

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

💡 This Skill includes scripts (resource) components.

What problem does it solve?

Generate deterministic timestamps in a fixed format to ensure consistent naming, logging, and auditing without relying on LLM-generated content.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Deterministic Format: YYYYMMDDHHMMSS timestamps for stable naming.
  • Bash-Based: Minimal dependencies; runs in any POSIX shell.
  • Common Uses: Filenames, directories, log entries, and commit messages.

Quick Start

bash ./skills/timestamp/scripts/generate_timestamp.sh

Frequently Asked Questions about timestamp

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I generate timestamps in YYYYMMDDHHMMSS format for filenames and logs?▼

Use the Bash date command with the +%Y%m%d%H%M%S format specifier to produce a deterministic timestamp string suitable for filenames, directories, and log entries in POSIX-compatible environments.

Can I create deterministic timestamps in Bash without external dependencies?▼

Yes. Deterministic timestamps rely only on the built-in date command available in any POSIX shell, requiring no additional dependencies or external tools.

Why use fixed-format timestamps instead of variable date formats in automation?▼

Fixed-format timestamps ensure consistent, sortable naming across filenames, logs, and CI workflows, preventing parsing errors and maintaining predictable ordering in batch operations.

How do I use timestamps for consistent log entry naming in shell scripts?▼

Embed the YYYYMMDDHHMMSS timestamp format in log filenames or entries within Bash scripts to create stable, machine-readable records suitable for auditing and automated log processing.

What format ensures timestamps sort correctly by date and time in filenames?▼

The YYYYMMDDHHMMSS format sorts lexicographically, so files and logs order chronologically without additional processing, making it ideal for automated sorting in Unix-like systems.

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