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