CLI Development Patterns
Modern CLI design patterns for commands, flags, output, errors, signals, config, and distribution.
References
See references/cli-patterns.md for comprehensive guidance organized by:
- •Design & Naming - Command structure, naming conventions, future-proofing
- •Flags & Arguments - Standard flags, short forms, boolean negation
- •Output & Formatting - stdout/stderr, TTY detection, colors, machine-readable formats
- •Error Handling - Exit codes, error messages, signal-to-noise ratio
- •Signals & Lifecycle - Ctrl-C handling, cleanup timeouts
- •Environment & Config - Standard variables, precedence, naming
- •Distribution & Packaging - Single binary distribution, uninstall instructions
- •Security & Privacy - Secret handling, telemetry consent