dotfiles

name	dotfiles
description	Reference for repository dotfiles, including their purposes, standard configurations, and usage guidelines. You MUST load this skill when configuring, troubleshooting, or understanding repository dotfiles.
license	MIT

dotfiles

WHEN TO USE

• Identifying the correct dotfile to modify for a specific configuration change (e.g., formatting, linting, git behavior).
• Troubleshooting CI/CD, linting, formatting, or environment configuration issues.
• Setting up a new repository with standard organizational configuration files.
• Understanding the purpose of existing hidden configuration files in the root directory.

WHEN NOT TO USE

• Modifying application-specific source code or core business logic.
• Configuring cloud infrastructure outside the repository itself (e.g., Terraform, AWS).
• Modifying standard documentation files (README.md, CONTRIBUTING.md) that are not hidden dotfiles.

Step-by-Step Workflows

Configuring a Dotfile

1. Identify the Scope: Determine what needs configuring (e.g., editor settings, git attributes, linting rules, dependency management).
2. Locate the Dotfile: Find the appropriate dotfile in the repository root or .github/ directory.
3. Analyze Existing Configuration: Read the file to understand current rules, overrides, and syntax.
4. Apply Changes: Modify the configuration following the specific tool's exact documentation and syntax.
5. Verify Changes: Run the associated tool (linter, formatter, or git command) to ensure changes are valid and have the intended effect.