8 tips to embrace API documentation with both arms instead of one
Tags: tips, api, mentalhealth, strategies
Published: 2023-12-08 21:25:21

Hello! I'm back with another thought I had. 

So here is the scoop. I was indulging in some research on API documentation for educational purposes and came up with a few tips after taking a step back. What I realized is that API documentation is **overwhelming**. This is due to the technical language used, the code snippets provided, and the lack of explanation on what else you can do with a specific endpoint. For me, I need examples, videos (if possible), or use cases to get the full effect. 

I found the tips below helpful in taming your brain to go at this with ease instead of going in with no plan and being surprised and slapped as Charlie Murphy did:

<img width="100%" style="width:100%" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/Ql5voX2wAVUYw/giphy.gif">

Okay, we had a good laugh. Now, let me tell you what you need to do:

1. **Start small and focus on your immediate needs.** Treat it like your favorite sandwich, savor each bite, and soon you'll be an expert. 

2. Try to figure out the structure of the documentation. The structure is usually organized like a library with sections such as getting started, authentication, resources, and error codes. Use the table of contents and search bar to guide you. Ain't no shame in using your table of contents game

3. Use the code examples provided. This is important because you should test APIs using Postman or other software to see how it works. If you're working with a product and need to know what endpoints are in play with your monitoring tool, this will give you an understanding of how things are connecting. 

4. Experiment with the API. Try different calls and parameters to learn limitations. Why? **This is crucial to ensure that users understand the API's capabilities and limitations.**

5. Use playgrounds like if available. It's like a sandbox where you can safely test and play with code. **Ex:** Postman, SoapUI, Insomnia (my favorite), or the bigger names like GCP console or Amazon API Gateway console.

6. It's always a good idea to join developer communities and forums that are dedicated to the API you are using. There are no silly questions, so don't hesitate to ask them. Share your knowledge with others and learn from them as well, since there is no one right way to do things. You can gain different perspectives from different people.

7. **Be patient**. Learning takes time and effort. Embrace failure and know that you will not get it right away. If you're stuck, take a break, revisit the documentation, and ask for help. 

8. Keep up-to-date with the API documentation. It's a living document that evolves, so revisit it periodically to stay informed. Who knows, you might be somewhere sleeping and a question comes up and you are like:

 <img width="100%" style="width:100%" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/10AmJ6TIlbYxAk/giphy-downsized-large.gif">

Keep learning and exploring new APIs. The more you learn, the more powerful you become. BE RELENTLESSLY RESOURCEFUL! - Now! Embrace the API with both hands and the heck with the consequences. That's living and part of the journey. #stayhumble #stayfocused #staywarm #enjoylifechallenges #API

 <img width="100%" style="width:100%" src="https://media.giphy.com/media/ve4thJWqjPelelRqjU/giphy.gif">