jiffies/project-documentation-skill
Overview
This skill creates high-quality project documentation and system guides for software projects. It produces clear onboarding content, visual operation diagrams using Mermaid, and well-structured configuration references to make projects easier to use and maintain.
How this skill works
I analyze the codebase and configuration samples to extract core features, tech stack, and user workflows. I generate Mermaid flowcharts for core flows, data flows, and architecture, then write step-by-step usage instructions with copy-paste commands and verification steps. Finally, I organize environment and config documentation with required/optional markings, defaults, and acquisition notes.
When to use it
- You need a complete, user-friendly project landing document for new users.
- You want visual system operation diagrams that explain component interactions.
- You must add clear, beginner-friendly start and usage instructions.
- You need organized configuration documentation for environment variables and files.
- You are updating documentation for an internal tool, API service, or open-source project.
Best practices
- Write from the user perspective assuming no prior knowledge.
- Provide copy-paste-ready commands, expected output, and quick verification steps.
- Group configuration items with clear separators and mark required vs optional.
- Keep diagrams moderate in complexity (<20 nodes) and label flows clearly.
- Include troubleshooting tips, acquisition instructions for credentials, and examples.
Example use cases
- Create a beginner-friendly start guide with prerequisites, install steps, and a quick demo.
- Add a core operation Mermaid flowchart that shows user actions through the system.
- Document all environment variables: purpose, required/optional, default values, and how to obtain secrets.
- Convert scattered setup notes into a single, verifiable onboarding document for new engineers.
- Update technical architecture diagrams to reflect new microservices and external APIs.
FAQ
Yes — I generate Mermaid syntax that can be embedded and rendered by common static site generators and markdown viewers.
How do you handle missing project details?
I list information gaps and provide suggested questions or placeholders to collect credentials, environment defaults, and workflow specifics.
