zargs

Implement zero-dependency enum-based argument parsing for Java CLI applications.

46|10|Updated Dec 14, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/AdamBien/airails --skill zargs
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: zargs
Source: https://github.com/AdamBien/airails/tree/main/java/zargs
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/AdamBien/airails --skill zargs

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This Skill simplifies adding robust, zero-dependency argument parsing to Java command-line applications, eliminating the need for external libraries.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Enum-based Argument Parsing: Define CLI options using Java enums for type safety and maintainability.
  • Automatic Usage Generation: Generates help messages directly from enum definitions.
  • Flexible Syntax: Supports both colon-separated (-option:value) and space-separated (-option value) argument syntaxes.
  • Use Case: Quickly add options like -verbose, -output <file>, or -config <path> to your Java CLI tools without adding any dependencies.

Quick Start

Add zero-dependency argument parsing to a Java CLI application using the zargs pattern.

Frequently Asked Questions about zargs

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

FAQPage Schema
How do I parse command-line arguments in Java without external libraries?

You can implement zero-dependency argument parsing for Java CLI applications by defining options as enum constants, which provides type safety and automatic usage generation without adding external dependencies.

How does enum-based argument parsing work for Java CLI applications?

Enum-based argument parsing maps command-line options to Java enum constants, allowing the parser to generate help messages directly from the enum definitions while supporting flexible colon-separated or space-separated syntaxes.

Do I need Java 21 to use zero-dependency CLI argument parsing?

Yes, implementing this zero-dependency argument parsing pattern requires Java 21 or higher, and it adheres to specific coding conventions for enum constants, argument records, and parsing logic.

What is the best way to generate help messages for Java command-line tools?

Defining your CLI options using Java enums allows the parser to automatically generate usage and help messages directly from those enum definitions, eliminating the need for manual help text maintenance.

Can I use both space-separated and colon-separated syntaxes for Java CLI argument parsing?

Yes, this zero-dependency Java argument parsing approach supports both colon-separated syntax like `-option:value` and space-separated syntax like `-option value` for processing command-line arguments.

What are the limitations of zero-dependency Java CLI argument parsing?

This approach requires strict adherence to specific coding conventions for enum constants and argument records, and it necessitates a Java 21+ environment, which may limit compatibility with older Java codebases.