How to Document API Design? | Pouted.com

Every developer prefers elementary and clean code. The goal in coding is to discover the almost constructive way to accomplish more with less. Unfortunately, the skill of keeping things comprehensive yet straightforward does not always utilize to API documentation. In a nutshell, API documentation consists of more than than just the methods and the endpoints. Unlike computer code, documentation is intended for human audiences. But the delivery to write skilful documentation begins by post-obit API documentation best practices. This commodity will outline some of the most useful recommendations you can utilize to write excellent API docs .

1 Who is the intended audition?

The API documentation is supposed to provide solutions to real issues. Mostly, 2 kinds of consumers will determine how you will create the documentation. First, you need to consider the people who volition decide whether the API is worth implementing. These decision-makers will not work directly with the API, but your documentation volition convince them to integrate the API in their production or service. Your next consideration is the people who will work with the API. The documentation should assist them learn and integrate the API. The purpose of your documentation is to provide these people with an easy to use reference for the product.

One time you take identified the intended audience for your API documentation, the next pace is to use best practices to improve the overall user experience. Viable documentation should consist of the bare minimum. Experts understand that creating API documentation takes time. Merely, it does non mean consumers should await a long time before they are given access. If you put all the essential pieces in place, you lot can take a robust resources, which y'all can ultimately update equally you lot build the product and resolve concerns.

2 Use a dynamic layout

A modern and dynamic layout is easier to navigate. Some essential elements you need to consider are:

Tabs. Tabs help developers organize data, especially when at that place are multiple languages.
Syntax highlighter. It may exist a modest item, but it helps in making documentation more readable.
Multiple columns. When at that place are several columns, it is easier for the user to run across the full context of information laid out.
Navigation bar. The navigation bar should be visible at all times.

There are templates available if you exercise not desire to build the layout from scratch.

3 Provide maximum examples

Developers rely on examples to help them in learning a specific technique. Fortunately, there are tools you tin apply to generate sample snippets of code to integrate into your documentation. Still, if you are using a tool, make sure that the documentation self-updates simultaneously every bit y'all also alter the code.

4 Explain as much as you tin can

Although you tin outsource some of the work by using tools, you all the same need to take time in explaining and clarifying the information. In your documentation, brand sure that there is an overview of the API. Do not forget to include a detailed explanation for each parameter or call. Lastly, error codes need to be accompanied with readable error-treatment data and instructions.