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lolwierd
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dotfiles

Explain and manage dotfiles using GNU Stow across macOS and Linux.

1|1|Updated Aug 3, 2020
Search Tags:#dotfiles#configuration#shell#stow#gnu-stow#dot-prefix
One-click install
npx skills add https://github.com/lolwierd/dotfiles --skill dotfiles-lolwierd
Or copy as Structured Prompt for Agent▼
Please help me install this Agent Skill.
Skill: dotfiles
Source: https://github.com/lolwierd/dotfiles/tree/main/ai/dot-agents/skills/dotfiles
Command: npx skills add https://github.com/lolwierd/dotfiles --skill dotfiles-lolwierd

SYSTEM DOCUMENTATION & REQUIREMENTS

What problem does it solve?

Explain and manage lolwierd's dotfiles to enable safe, persistent changes.

Core Features & Use Cases

  • Explains the dot-prefix convention and the stow packaging layout (shell, config, ai).
  • Guides adding or editing files inside ~/dotfiles and applying changes to the home directory via stow.
  • Provides best practices for cross-machine configuration management, backups, and versioning.

Quick Start

Edit a dotfile inside ~/dotfiles and run the appropriate stow command to apply changes to your home directory.

Frequently Asked Questions about dotfiles

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

FAQPage Schema
What is GNU Stow and how does it manage dotfiles?▼

GNU Stow is a symlink farm manager that packages dotfiles from a centralized directory into your home directory. It organizes configurations into groups like shell, config, and ai, applying changes safely via symlinks.

How do I edit shell configurations and apply them safely?▼

To edit shell configurations safely, modify the target file inside the ~/dotfiles directory and run the appropriate stow command to symlink the changes to your home directory, ensuring versioned backups are maintained.

Can I sync dotfiles across macOS and Linux using the dot-prefix convention?▼

Yes, the dot-prefix convention syncs dotfiles across macOS and Linux by managing configurations in a shared ~/dotfiles layout. GNU Stow applies these cross-platform configurations safely to the home directory.

What's the best way to add new dotfiles to an existing stow packaging layout?▼

The best way to add new dotfiles is to place them in the correct package folder within ~/dotfiles and run stow to create the necessary symlinks. This maintains safe, versioned configuration management.

Does modifying dotfiles directly in the home directory break the stow workflow?▼

Modifying dotfiles directly in the home directory bypasses the stow workflow and breaks symlink management. You should edit files inside ~/dotfiles and run stow to apply changes, ensuring backups and versioning remain intact.

Why do I need a dot-prefix layout for shell and config management?▼

The dot-prefix layout provides a structured convention for organizing shell and config files before stow symlinks them. It separates packages clearly, enabling safe modifications and persistent, versioned configuration changes.

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