AgenticAI: Instructions file for GitHub Copilot

Documentation Guidelines

Writing Style

Tone & Voice

• Use clear, concise language
• Write in active voice
• Be direct and helpful
• Avoid jargon unless necessary (define it when used)
• Use second person ("you") for instructions

Structure

• Start with a brief overview
• Use headings to organize content
• Include table of contents for long documents
• End with next steps or related resources

Markdown Best Practices

Headings

• Use sentence case for headings
• Don't skip heading levels
• Keep headings descriptive but concise

Code Blocks

• Always specify the language for syntax highlighting
• Include comments for complex code
• Show expected output when helpful

// Example: Creating a new user
const user = await createUser({
  email: '[email protected]',
  name: 'John Doe'
});
// Returns: { id: 'abc123', email: '...', name: '...' }

Lists

• Use bullet points for unordered items
• Use numbered lists for sequential steps
• Keep list items parallel in structure

Links

• Use descriptive link text (not "click here")
• Check links periodically for validity
• Use relative links for internal documentation

Documentation Types

README

• Project overview and purpose
• Quick start guide
• Installation instructions
• Basic usage examples
• Links to detailed documentation

API Documentation

• Endpoint descriptions
• Request/response examples
• Authentication requirements
• Error codes and handling
• Rate limiting information

Architecture Docs

• System overview diagrams
• Component descriptions
• Data flow explanations
• Technology decisions and rationale

How-To Guides

• Clear problem statement
• Prerequisites
• Step-by-step instructions
• Troubleshooting section

Maintenance

• Review documentation with code changes
• Date-stamp or version documentation
• Archive outdated documentation
• Encourage team contributions