datasette-plugin-writer

Guide Datasette plugin development from cookiecutter bootstrap to publishing workflows.

682|49|Updated Oct 20, 2025
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/simonw/research --skill datasette-plugin-writer
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: datasette-plugin-writer
Source: https://github.com/simonw/research/tree/main/datasette-plugin-skill
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/simonw/research --skill datasette-plugin-writer

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

This guide helps developers rapidly create and publish Datasette plugins by providing a structured, end-to-end workflow and a collection of best practices.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Cookiecutter bootstrap for quick plugin scaffolding and standardized naming
  • Comprehensive plugin hooks references (prepare_connection, register_routes, render_cell, extra_template_vars, table_actions, actor_from_request, permission_allowed)
  • APIs and patterns for Request/Response, Database access, and Plugin Configuration
  • Static assets and templates integration, testing strategies, and publishing workflows to GitHub and PyPI

Quick Start

Create a new Datasette plugin project using the cookiecutter template and begin implementing core hooks

Frequently Asked Questions about datasette-plugin-writer

High-intent search queries and answers about installing and using this skill.

FAQPage Schema
How do I build and publish a Datasette plugin from start to finish?▼

To build and publish a Datasette plugin, use a cookiecutter template for initial scaffolding, implement core hooks like prepare_connection and register_routes, write tests, then publish the package to GitHub and PyPI.

What are the essential Datasette plugin hooks I need to implement?▼

Essential Datasette plugin hooks include prepare_connection, register_routes, render_cell, extra_template_vars, table_actions, actor_from_request, and permission_allowed for extending database queries, routing, and authentication.

Can I use cookiecutter to scaffold a new Datasette plugin project?▼

Yes, you can use cookiecutter to scaffold a new Datasette plugin project. It provides standardized project naming and initial directory structure to quickly bootstrap your development workflow.

What is the best way to test and configure Datasette plugins?▼

The best way to test and configure Datasette plugins involves using dedicated testing strategies alongside APIs for plugin configuration, allowing you to validate Request/Response handling and database access patterns.

Does Datasette plugin development support custom authentication and permissions?▼

Yes, Datasette plugin development supports custom authentication and permissions through the actor_from_request and permission_allowed hooks, enabling you to manage user access control and request validation.

How do I add static assets and custom templates to a Datasette plugin?▼

To add static assets and custom templates to a Datasette plugin, utilize the integration patterns provided for static assets and templates, which allow you to inject custom HTML, CSS, and JavaScript into the Datasette instance.