Master REST and GraphQL API design principles to build intuitive, scalable, and maintainable APIs that delight developers. Use when designing new APIs, reviewing API specifications, or establishing API design standards.
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What the file says
# API Design Principles
Master REST and GraphQL API design principles to build intuitive, scalable, and maintainable APIs that delight developers and stand the test of time.
## When to Use This Skill
- Designing new REST or GraphQL APIs
- Refactoring existing APIs for better usability
- Establishing API design standards for your team
- Reviewing API specifications before implementation
- Migrating between API paradigms (REST to GraphQL, etc.)
- Creating developer-friendly API documentation
- Optimizing APIs for specific use cases (mobile, third-party integrations)
## Core Concepts
### 1. RESTful Design Principles
**Resource-Oriented Architecture**
- Resources are nouns (users, orders, products), not verbs
- Use HTTP methods for actions (GET, POST, PUT, PATCH, DELETE)
- URLs represent resource hierarchies
- Consistent naming conventions
**HTTP Methods Semantics:**
- `GET`: Retrieve resources (idempotent, safe)
- `POST`: Create new resources
- `PUT`: Replace entire resource (idempotent)
- `PATCH`: Partial resource updates
- `DELETE`: Remove resources (idempotent)
### 2. GraphQL Design Principles
**Schema-First Development**
- Types define your domain model
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GET https://markdownregistry.com/api/v1/artifacts/art_2eausc2mtw7mqpok
GET https://markdownregistry.com/api/v1/resolve?ref=pr-e/openclaw-master-skills/api-design-principles
GET https://markdownregistry.com/api/v1/blob/fa44aba6c2687e281dbd400de3c1bf81d24cd1d9ffa34532c652b90e6fb63ecd
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