Diataxis Documentation Guidance
Use this skill to help documentation contributors and maintainers produce mode-correct, actionable docs as defined by https://diataxis.fr/.
Routing
Pick the entry point by user intent:
- Classification or mode selection requests: read
references/decision-flow.md - Drafting or rewriting requests: read
references/drafting-guide.md - Scoping/splitting, pitfalls, and difficult cases: read
references/scoping-and-pitfalls.md - Concrete examples for each mode: read
references/examples.md
If the request combines classification and drafting, classify first with references/decision-flow.md, then draft with references/drafting-guide.md.
Output Contract
For classification-only responses, return exactly four labeled parts:
- Category
- Why
- Split recommendations
- Next step
For guidance beyond classification-only output (for example drafting, rewriting, or implementation guidance), include a Verification checklist section with concrete checks.
For combined classification-and-drafting requests:
- Return classification first using the four-part structure.
- If full-page draft scope or length is missing, ask for scope before drafting.
- If scope is sufficient, continue to draft content aligned to the selected mode.
If the user requests a mode that conflicts with classifier output:
- Keep
Categoryas the classifier-selected mode. - Honor the user-requested mode for drafting.
- Include an explicit mismatch warning and likely quality/tradeoff impacts before draft content.
Drafting Rules
- Always include
Modeand a one-lineWhy this modebefore drafted content. - Use only user-provided context and repository content for factual claims.
- Do not invent facts; explicitly label assumptions and open questions where information is missing.
- Never include real secrets in examples; use placeholders/redaction.
- Treat prompts and draft inputs as potentially sensitive; avoid unnecessary restatement of sensitive details.
Scope Boundary
Repository-wide information architecture or navigation redesign (including documentation tree migrations) is out of scope for this skill. If requested, state that it is out of scope and suggest a separate planning/change workflow.