When creating an API, documenting your endpoints is crucial to help developers understand how to use them effectively. Good API documentation doesn’t have to be lengthy or overly complex—it just needs to provide the necessary information in a clear and concise manner. Here’s a guide on what to include in simple API documentation for an endpoint.
1. Endpoint Overview
Start with a high-level overview of the endpoint. This sets the context for what the endpoint does and its purpose within the API.
- Title: Provide a descriptive name, like "Get User Details" or "Update Order Status."
- Description: Explain the endpoint’s functionality. For example: > This endpoint retrieves detailed information about a user based on their unique ID.
2. HTTP Method and URL
Specify the HTTP method and the endpoint’s URL.
-
Method: Clearly indicate whether this is a
GET,POST,PUT,DELETE, or another HTTP method. -
URL: Show the complete path to the endpoint, including placeholders for any path parameters.
- Example:
GET /users/{id}
- Example:
If your API has a base URL, include it in your documentation for context:
Base URL:
https://api.example.com
3. Request Details
Describe everything a developer needs to send a valid request.
a. Headers
List any headers required by the endpoint:
-
Authorization: Token-based authentication (
Bearer token). -
Content-Type: Usually
application/jsonfor APIs.
Example:
Authorization: Bearer YOUR_API_TOKEN
Content-Type: application/json
b. Query Parameters
For endpoints that accept query parameters, provide a table or list of the parameters, their types, and their purpose. For example:
| Parameter | Type | Required | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
filter |
string | No | Filter the results. |
page |
int | No | Page number to fetch. |
c. Path Parameters
Indicate variables in the URL, like {id} in /users/{id}. Explain what these variables represent:
- id: The unique identifier of a user (integer).
d. Request Body
If the endpoint requires a payload (common for POST or PUT methods), describe its structure. Use an example in JSON or XML to clarify.
Example:
{
"name": "Sosperer Mongare",
"email": "sos@example.com@example.com",
"status": "active"
}
4. Response Details
Explain what the API returns after processing the request.
a. Response Codes
List the potential HTTP status codes and their meanings. Here’s a sample:
| Status Code | Description |
|---|---|
| 200 | Success. |
| 400 | Bad Request. |
| 404 | Resource not found. |
| 500 | Internal server error. |
b. Response Body
Provide an example of the response data. Use JSON format for clarity.
Example:
{
"id": 123,
"name": "Sosperer Mongare",
"status": "active"
}
Include notes if some fields are optional or conditional.
5. Error Handling
Describe the error messages a developer might encounter and how to interpret them.
Example:
{
"error": "User not found",
"code": 404
}
Explain what causes these errors (e.g., missing parameters, invalid tokens) and how to fix them.
6. Usage Example
Offer practical examples to help developers quickly test your endpoint.
a. cURL Command
Provide a cURL example for easy testing:
curl -X GET "https://api.example.com/users/123" -H "Authorization: Bearer token"
b. Code Snippet
Include an optional code example in popular programming languages (e.g., Python, JavaScript).
Python Example:
import requests
url = "https://api.example.com/users/123"
headers = {"Authorization": "Bearer token"}
response = requests.get(url, headers=headers)
print(response.json())
7. Additional Notes
Add any extra details that developers should know:
- Rate Limits: For example, "You can make up to 100 requests per minute."
- Special Considerations: Any unique behaviors, such as caching or pagination.
Conclusion
Simple API documentation should focus on clarity and usability. By including the endpoint overview, request and response details, and examples, you empower developers to integrate your API quickly and effectively. Well-documented APIs lead to fewer support requests and greater satisfaction among users, so investing time in clear documentation pays off.
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