How to Use Claude for Writing Documentation
The exact prompt, setup, and codes to get great results.
The Problem
Good documentation is the difference between a library people adopt and one they abandon. But developers hate writing docs and the result is usually incomplete or outdated.
The Prompt (Copy & Paste)
Write documentation for [PROJECT/API/LIBRARY]. What it does: [ONE SENTENCE] Target reader: [BEGINNER DEV / SENIOR DEV / NON-TECHNICAL] Language: [LANGUAGE] Code/API to document: ```[language] [PASTE THE CODE OR API SURFACE] ``` Generate: 1. **Quick Start**: Get running in under 2 minutes (install + hello world) 2. **Core Concepts**: What mental model does the reader need? 3. **API Reference**: Every public function/method with params, return types, and examples 4. **Common Patterns**: 3-5 real-world usage examples 5. **Troubleshooting**: Top 5 issues people will hit and how to fix them 6. **Migration Guide** (if applicable): Breaking changes from previous version Rules: - Every code example must be copy-paste-runnable - No "TODO" placeholders - Use the simplest possible examples that still demonstrate the concept
Replace the [BRACKETED] placeholders with your specific details.
What You Get
Documentation that developers actually want to read. Runnable examples, clear mental models, and a troubleshooting section that prevents 80% of support questions.
Prompt Codes That Help
Add these prefix codes to the start of your prompt for even better results:
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