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diff --git a/docs/contributing/contributing-documentation.md b/docs/contributing/contributing-documentation.md index ebdffdbf..44be9229 100644 --- a/docs/contributing/contributing-documentation.md +++ b/docs/contributing/contributing-documentation.md @@ -1,192 +1,109 @@ -# Contributing to documentation - -We welcome contributions to Netdata's already extensive documentation, -which we host at [docs.netdata.cloud](https://docs.netdata.cloud/) -and store inside of the [main repository](https://github.com/netdata/netdata) on GitHub. - -Like all contributing to all other aspects of Netdata, we ask that anyone who wants to help with documentation -read and abide by the [Contributor Convenant Code of Conduct](https://docs.netdata.cloud/code_of_conduct/) -and follow the instructions outlined in our [Contributing document](../../CONTRIBUTING.md). - -We also ask you to read our [documentation style guide](style-guide.md), which, while not complete, -will give you some guidance on how we write and organize our documentation. - -All our documentation uses the Markdown syntax. If you're not familiar with how it works, -please read the [Markdown introduction post](https://daringfireball.net/projects/markdown/) by its creator, -followed by [Mastering Markdown](https://guides.github.com/features/mastering-markdown/) guide from GitHub. +<!-- +title: "Contributing to documentation" +description: "Want to contribute to Netdata's documentation? This guide will set you up with the tools to help others learn about health and performance monitoring." +custom_edit_url: https://github.com/netdata/netdata/edit/master/docs/contributing/contributing-documentation.md +--> -## How contributing to the documentation works - -There are two ways to contribute to Netdata's documentation: +# Contributing to documentation -1. Edit documentation [directly in GitHub](#edit-documentation-directly-on-github). -2. Download the repository and [edit documentation locally](#edit-documentation-locally). +We welcome contributions to Netdata's already extensive documentation. -Editing in GitHub is a simpler process and is perfect for quick edits to a single document, -such as fixing a typo or clarifying a confusing sentence. +We store documentation related to the open-source Netdata Agent inside of the [`netdata/netdata` +repository](https://github.com/netdata/netdata) on GitHub. Documentation related to Netdata Cloud is stored in a private +repository and is not currently open to community contributions. -Editing locally is more complex, as you need to download the Netdata repository -and build the documentation using `mkdocs`, but allows you to better organize complex projects. -By building documentation locally, you can preview your work using a local web server before you submit your PR. +The Netdata team aggregates and publishes all documentation at [learn.netdata.cloud](https://learn.netdata.cloud/) using +[Docusaurus](https://v2.docusaurus.io/) in a private GitHub repository. -In both cases, you'll finish by submitting a pull request (PR). -Once you submit your PR, GitHub will initiate a number of jobs, including a Netlify preview. -You can use this preview to view the documentation site with your changes applied, -which might help you catch any lingering issues. +## Before you get started -To continue, follow one of the paths below: +Anyone interested in contributing to documentation should first read the [Netdata style +guide](/docs/contributing/style-guide.md) and the [Netdata Community Code of Conduct](/CODE_OF_CONDUCT.md). -- [Edit documentation directly in GitHub](#edit-documentation-directly-on-github) -- [Edit documentation locally](#edit-documentation-locally) +Netdata's documentation uses Markdown syntax. If you're not familiar with Markdown, read the [Mastering +Markdown](https://guides.github.com/features/mastering-markdown/) guide from GitHub for the basics on creating +paragraphs, styled text, lists, tables, and more. -## Edit documentation directly on GitHub +### Netdata's documentation structure -Start editing documentation on GitHub by clicking the small pencil icon on any page on Netdata's [documentation site](https://docs.netdata.cloud/). -You can find them at the top of every page. +Netdata's documentation is separated into four sections. -Clicking on this icon will take you to the associated page in the `netdata/netdata` repository. -Then click the small pencil icon on any documentation file (those ending in the `.md` Markdown extension) in the `netdata/netdata` repository. +- **Netdata**: Documents based on the actions users want to take, and solutions to their problems, such both the Netdata + Agent and Netdata Cloud. + - Stored in various subfolders of the [`/docs` folder](https://github.com/netdata/netdata/tree/master/docs) within the + `netdata/netdata` repository: `/docs/collect`, `/docs/configure`, `/docs/export`, `/docs/get`, `/docs/monitor`, + `/docs/overview`, `/docs/quickstart`, `/docs/store`, and `/docs/visualize`. + - Published at [`https://learn.netdata.cloud/docs`](https://learn.netdata.cloud/docs). +- **Netdata Agent reference**: Reference documentation for the open-source Netdata Agent. + - Stored in various `.md` files within the `netdata/netdata` repository alongside the code responsible for that + feature. For example, the database engine's reference documentation is at `/database/engine/README.md`. + - Published at [`https://learn.netdata.cloud/docs/agent`](https://learn.netdata.cloud/docs/agent). +- **Netdata Cloud reference**: Reference documentation for the closed-source Netdata Cloud web application. + - Stored in a private GitHub repository and not editable by the community. + - Published at [`https://learn.netdata.cloud/docs/cloud`](https://learn.netdata.cloud/docs/cloud). +- **Guides**: Solutions-based articles for users who want instructions on completing a specific complex task using the + Netdata Agent and/or Netdata Cloud. + - Stored in the [`/docs/guides` folder](https://github.com/netdata/netdata/tree/master/docs/guides) within the + `netdata/netdata` repository. Organized into subfolders that roughly correlate with the core Netdata documentation. + - Published at [`https://learn.netdata.cloud/guides`](https://learn.netdata.cloud/guides). - +Generally speaking, if you want to contribute to the reference documentation for a specific Netdata Agent feature, find +the appropriate `.md` file co-located with that feature. If you want to contribute documentation that spans features or +products, or has no direct correlation with the existing directory structure, place it in the `/docs` folder within +`netdata/netdata`. -If you know where a file resides in the Netdata repository already, -you can skip the step of beginning on the documentation site and go directly to GitHub. +## How to contribute -Once you've clicked the pencil icon on GitHub, you'll see a full Markdown version of the file. -Make changes as you see fit. -You can use the `Preview changes` button to ensure your Markdown syntax is working properly. +The easiest way to contribute to Netdata's documentation is to edit a file directly on GitHub. This is perfect for small +fixes to a single document, such as fixing a typo or clarifying a confusing sentence. -Under the `Propose file change` header, write in a descriptive title for your requested change. -Beneath that, add a concise descrition of what you've changed and why you think it's important. Then, click the `Propose file change` button. +Click on the **Edit this page** button on any published document on [Netdata Learn](https://learn.netdata.cloud). Each +page has two of these buttons: One beneath the table of contents, and another at the end of the document, which take you +to GitHub's code editor. Make your suggested changes, keeping [Netdata style guide](/docs/contributing/style-guide.md) +in mind, and use *Preview changes** button to ensure your Markdown syntax works as expected. -After you've hit that button, -jump down to our instructions on [pull requests and cleanup](#pull-requests-and-final-steps) for your next steps. +Under the **Commit changes** header, write descriptive title for your requested change. Click the **Commit changes** +button to initiate your pull request (PR). -!!! note - This process will create a branch directly on the `netdata/netdata` repository, which then requires manual cleanup. - If you're going to make significant documentation contributions, or contribute often, - we recommend the local editing process just below. +Jump down to our instructions on [PRs](#making-a-pull-request) for your next steps. -## Edit documentation locally +### Edit locally -Editing documentation locally is the preferred method for complex changes, PRs that span across multiple documents, -or those that change the styling or underlying functionality of the documentation. +Editing documentation locally is the preferred method for complex changes that span multiple documents or change the +documentation's style or structure. -Here is the workflow for editing documentation locally. First, create a fork of the Netdata repository, -if you don't have one already. Visit the [Netdata repository](https://github.com/netdata/netdata) -and click on the `Fork` button in the upper-right corner of the window. +Create a fork of the Netdata Agent repository by visit the [Netdata repository](https://github.com/netdata/netdata) and +clicking on the **Fork** button. - + -GitHub will ask you where you want to clone the repository, -and once finished you'll end up at the index of your forked Netdata repository. -Clone your fork to your local machine: +GitHub will ask you where you want to clone the repository. When finished, you end up at the index of your forked +Netdata Agent repository. Clone your fork to your local machine: ```bash git clone https://github.com/YOUR-GITHUB-USERNAME/netdata.git ``` -You can now jump into the directory and explore Netdata's structure for yourself. - -### Understanding the structure of Netdata's documentation - -All of Netdata's documentation is stored within the repository itself, as close as possible to the code it -corresponds to. Many sub-folders contain a `README.md` file, -which is then used to populate the documentation about that feature/component of Netdata. - -For example, the file at `packaging/installer/README.md` becomes `https://docs.netdata.cloud/packaging/installer/` -and is our installation documentation. By co-locating it with quick-start installtion code, -we ensure documentation is always tightly knit with the functions it describes. - -You might find other `.md` files within these directories. The `packaging/installer/` folder also contains `UPDATE.md` -and `UNINSTALL.md`, which become `https://docs.netdata.cloud/packaging/installer/update/` -and `https://docs.netdata.cloud/packaging/installer/uninstall/`, respectively. - -If the documentation you're working on has a direct correlation to some component of Netdata, place it into the correct -folder and either name it `README.md` for generic documentation, or with another name for very specific instructions. - -#### The `docs` folder - -At the root of the Netdata repository is a `docs/` folder. Inside this folder we place documentation that does not have -a direct relationship to a specific component of Netdata. It's where we house our [getting started -guide](../../docs/getting-started.md), guides on [running Netdata behind Nginx](../../docs/Running-behind-nginx.md), and -more. - -If the documentation you're working on doesn't have a direct relaionship to a component of Netdata, -it can be placed in this `docs/` folder. - -### Make your edits - -Now that you're set up and understand where to find or create your `.md` file, you can now begin to make your edits. -Just use your favorite editor and keep in mind our [style guide](style-guide.md) as you work. - -If you add a new file to the documentation, you may need to modify the `buildyaml.sh` file to ensure -it's added to the site's navigation. This is true for any file added to the `docs/` folder. - -Be sure to periodically add/commit your edits so that you don't lose your work! -We use version control software for a reason. - -### Build the documentation - -Building the documentation periodically gives you a glimpse into the final product, and is generally required -if you're making changes to the table of contents. - -!!! attention "" - We have only tested the build process on Linux. Initial tests on OS X have been unsuccessful. - Windows is fully untested at this point, but we would love to know if it works there as well! - -To build the documentation, you need `python`/`pip`, `mkdocs`, and `mkdocs-material` installed on your machine. - -Follow the [Python installation instructions](https://www.python.org/downloads/) for your machine. - -Use `pip`, which was installed alongside Python, to install `mkdocs` and `mkdocs-material`. -Your operating system might force you to use `pip2` or `pip3` instead, -dependin on which version of Python you have installed. - -```bash -pip install mkdocs mkdocs-material -``` - -??? note "Troubleshooting" - If you're having trouble with the installation of Python, `mkdocs`, or `mkdocs-material`, try looking into the `mkdocs` [installation instructions](https://squidfunk.github.io/mkdocs-material/getting-started/#installation). - -When `pip` is finished installing, navigate to the root directory of the Netdata repository -and run the documentation generator script. - -```bash -sh docs/generator/buildhtml.sh -``` - -This process will take some time. Once finished, the built documentation site will be located at `docs/generator/build/`. - -### Run a local web server to test documentation - -The best way to view the documentation site you just built is to run a simple web server from the `docs/generator/build/` directory. -So, navigate there and run a Python-based web server: - -```sh -cd docs/generator/build/ -python3 -m http.server 20000 -``` - -Feel free to replace the port number you want this web server to listen on (port `20000` in this case (only one higher -than the agent!)). - -Open your web browser and navigate to `http://localhost:20000`. -If you replaced the port earlier, change it here as well. -You can now navigate through the documentation as you would on the live site! +Create a new branch using `git checkout -b BRANCH-NAME`. Use your favorite text editor to make your changes, keeping the +[Netdata style guide](/docs/contributing/style-guide.md) in mind. Add, commit, and push changes to your fork. When +you're finished, visit the [Netdata Agent Pull requests](https://github.com/netdata/netdata/pulls) to create a new pull +request based on the changes you made in the new branch of your fork. -## Pull requests and final steps +## Making a pull request -When you're finished with your changes, add and commit them to your fork of the Netdata repository. -Head over to GitHub to create your pull request (PR). +Pull requests (PRs) should be concise and informative. See our [PR guidelines](/CONTRIBUTING.md#pr-guidelines) for +specifics. -Once we receive your pull request (PR), we'll take time to read through it and assess it for correctness, conciseness, -and overall quality. -We may point to specific sections and ask for additional information or other fixes. +- The title must follow the [imperative mood](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Imperative_mood) and be no more than ~50 + characters. +- The description should explain what was changed and why. Verify that you tested any code or processes that you are + trying to change. -## What's next +The Netdata team will review your PR and assesses it for correctness, conciseness, and overall quality. We may point to +specific sections and ask for additional information or other fixes. -- Read up on the Netdata documentation [style guide](style-guide.md). +After merging your PR, the Netdata team rebuilds the [documentation site](https://learn.netdata.cloud) to publish the +changed documentation. [](<>) diff --git a/docs/contributing/style-guide.md b/docs/contributing/style-guide.md index 5ccd250e..faa6fc62 100644 --- a/docs/contributing/style-guide.md +++ b/docs/contributing/style-guide.md @@ -1,271 +1,444 @@ +<!-- +title: "Netdata style guide" +description: "The Netdata style guide establishes editorial guidelines for all of Netdata's writing, including documentation, blog posts, in-product UX copy, and more." +custom_edit_url: https://github.com/netdata/netdata/edit/master/docs/contributing/style-guide.md +--> + # Netdata style guide -This in-progress style guide establishes editorial guidelines for anyone who wants to write documentation for Netdata products. +The _Netdata style guide_ establishes editorial guidelines for any writing produced by the Netdata team or the Netdata +community, including documentation, articles, in-product UX copy, and more. Both internal Netdata teams and external +contributors to any of Netdata's open-source projects should reference and adhere to this style guide as much as +possible. -## Table of contents +Netdata's writing should **empower** and **educate**. You want to help people understand Netdata's value, encourage them +to learn more, and ultimately use Netdata's products to democratize monitoring in their organizations. To achieve these +goals, your writing should be: -- [Welcome!](#welcome) -- [Goals of the Netdata style guide](#goals-of-the-Netdata-style-guide) -- [General principles](#general-principles) -- [Tone and content](#tone-and-content) -- [Language and grammar](#language-and-grammar) -- [Markdown syntax](#markdown-syntax) -- [Accessibility](#accessibility) +- **Clear**. Use simple words and sentences. Use strong, direct, and active language that encourages readers to action. +- **Concise**. Provide solutions and answers as quickly as possible. Give users the information they need right now, + along with opportunities to learn more. +- **Universal**. Think of yourself as a guide giving a tour of Netdata's products, features, and capabilities to a + diverse group of users. Write to reach the widest possible audience. -## Welcome +You can achieve these goals by reading and adhering to the principles outlined below. -Proper documentation is essential to the success of any open-source project. Netdata is no different. The health of our monitoring agent, and the community it's created, depends on this effort. +## Voice and tone -We’re here to make developers, sysadmins, and DevOps engineers better at their jobs, after all! +One way we write empowering, educational content is by using a consistent voice and an appropriate tone. -We welcome contributions to Netdata's documentation. Begin with the [contributing to documentation guide](contributing-documentation.md), followed by this style guide. +_Voice_ is like your personality, which doesn't really change day to day. -## Goals of the Netdata style guide +_Tone_ is how you express your personality. Your expression changes based on your attitude or mood, or based on who +you're around. In writing, your reflect tone in your word choice, punctuation, sentence structure, or even the use of +emoji. -An editorial style guide establishes standards for writing and maintaining documentation. At Netdata, we focus on the following principles: +The same idea about voice and tone applies to organizations, too. Our voice shouldn't change much between two pieces of +content, no matter who wrote each, but the tone might be quite different based on who we think is reading. -- Consistency -- High-quality writing -- Conciseness -- Accessibility +For example, a [blog post](https://www.netdata.cloud/blog/) and a [press release](https://www.netdata.cloud/news/) +should have a similar voice, despite most often being written by different people. However, blog posts are relaxed and +witty, while press releases are focused and academic. You won't see any emoji in a press release. -These principles will make documentation better for everyone who wants to use Netdata, whether they're a beginner or an expert. +### Voice -### Breaking the rules +Netdata's voice is authentic, passionate, playful, and respectful. -None of the rules described in this style guide are absolute. **We welcome rule-breaking if it creates better, more accessible documentation.** +- **Authentic** writing is honest and fact-driven. Focus on Netdata's strength while accurately communicating what + Netdata can and cannot do, and emphasize technical accuracy over hard sells and marketing jargon. +- **Passionate** writing is strong and direct. Be a champion for the product or feature you're writing about, and let + your unique personality and writing style shine. +- **Playful** writing is friendly, thoughtful, and engaging. Don't take yourself too seriously, as long as it's not at + the expense of Netdata or any of its users. +- **Respectful** writing treats people the way you want to be treated. Prioritize giving solutions and answers as + quickly as possible. -But be aware that Netdata staff or community members may ask you to justify your rule-breaking during the PR review process. +### Tone -## General principles +Netdata's tone is fun and playful, but clarity and conciseness comes first. We also tend to be informal, and aren't +afraid of a playful joke or two. -Yes, this style guide is pretty overwhelming! Establishing standards for a global community is never easy. +While we have general standards for voice and tone, we do want every individual's unique writing style to reflect in +published content. -Here's a few key points to start with. Where relevant, they link to more in-depth information about a given rule. +## Universal communication -**[Tone and content](#tone-and-content)**: +Netdata is a global company in every sense, with employees, contributors, and users from around the world. We strive to +communicate in a way that is clear and easily understood by everyone. -- Be [conversational and friendly](#conversational-and-friendly-tone). -- Write [concisely](#write-concisely). -- Don't use words like **here** when [creating hyperlinks](#use-informational-hyperlinks). -- Don't mention [future releases or features](#mentioning-future-releases-or-features) in documentation. +Here are some guidelines, pointers, and questions to be aware of as you write to ensure your writing is universal. Some +of these are expanded into individual sections in the [language, grammar, and +mechanics](#language-grammar-and-mechanics) section below. -**[Language and grammar](#language-and-grammar)**: +- Would this language make sense to someone who doesn't work here? +- Could someone quickly scan this document and understand the material? +- Create an information hierarchy with key information presented first and clearly called out to improve scannability. +- Avoid directional language like "sidebar on the right of the page" or "header at the top of the page" since + presentation elements may adapt for devices. +- Use descriptive links rather than "click here" or "learn more". +- Include alt text for images and image links. +- Ensure any information contained within a graphic element is also available as plain text. +- Avoid idioms that may not be familiar to the user or that may not make sense when translated. +- Avoid local, cultural, or historical references that may be unfamiliar to users. +- Prioritize active, direct language. +- Avoid referring to someone's age unless it is directly relevant; likewise, avoid referring to people with age-related + descriptors like "young" or "elderly." +- Avoid disability-related idioms like "lame" or "falling on deaf ears." Don't refer to a person's disability unless + it’s directly relevant to what you're writing. +- Don't call groups of people "guys." Don't call women "girls." +- Avoid gendered terms in favor of neutral alternatives, like "server" instead of "waitress" and "businessperson" + instead of "businessman." +- When writing about a person, use their communicated pronouns. When in doubt, just ask or use their name. It's OK to + use "they" as a singular pronoun. -- [Capitalize words](#capitalization) at the beginning of sentences, for proper nouns, and at the beginning of document titles and section headers. -- Use [second person](#second-person)—"you" rather than "we"—when giving instructions. -- Use [active voice](#active-voice) to make clear who or what is performing an action. -- Always employ an [Oxford comma](#oxford-comma) on lists. +> Some of these guidelines were adapted from MailChimp under the Creative Commons license. -**[Markdown syntax](#markdown-syntax)**: +## Language, grammar, and mechanics -- [Reference UI elements](#references-to-ui-elements) with bold text. -- Use our [built-in syntax highlighter](#language-specific-syntax-highlighting-in-code-blocks) to improve the readability and usefulness of code blocks. +To ensure Netdata's writing is clear, concise, and universal, we have established standards for language, grammar, and +certain writing mechanics. However, if you're writing about Netdata for an external publication, such as a guest blog +post, follow that publication's style guide or standards, while keeping the [preferred spelling of Netdata +terms](#netdata-specific-terms) in mind. -**[Accessibility](#accessibility)**: +### Active voice -- Include [alt tags on images](#images). +Active voice is more concise and easier to understand compared to passive voice. When using active voice, the subject of +the sentence is action. In passive voice, the subject is acted upon. A famous example of passive voice is the phrase +"mistakes were made." ---- +| | | +|-----------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | When an alarm is triggered by a metric, a notification is sent by Netdata. | +| **Recommended** | When a metric triggers an alarm, Netdata sends a notification to your preferred endpoint. | -## Tone and content +### Second person -Netdata's documentation should be conversational, concise, and informational, without feeling formal. This isn't a textbook. It's a repository of information that should (on occasion!) encourage and excite its readers. +Use the second person ("you") to give instructions or "talk" directly to users. -By following a few principles on tone and content we'll ensure more readers from every background and skill level will learn as much as possible about Netdata's capabilities. +In these situations, avoid "we," "I," "let's," and "us," particularly in documentation. The "you" pronoun can also be +implied, depending on your sentence structure. -### Conversational and friendly tone +One valid exception is when a member of the Netdata team or community wants to write about said team or community. -Netdata's documentation should be conversational and friendly. To borrow from Google's fantastic [developer style guide](https://developers.google.com/style/tone): +| | | +|--------------------------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | To install Netdata, we should try the one-line installer... | +| **Recommended** | To install Netdata, you should try the one-line installer... | +| **Recommended**, implied "you" | To install Netdata, try the one-line installer... | -> Try to sound like a knowledgeable friend who understands what the developer wants to do. +### "Easy" or "simple" -Feel free to let some of your personality show! Documentation can be highly professional without being dry, formal, or overly instructive. +Using words that imply the complexity of a task or feature goes against our policy of [universal +communication](#universal-communication). If you claim that a task is easy and the reader struggles to complete it, you +may inadvertently discourage them. -### Write concisely +However, if you give users two options and want to relay that one option is genuinely less complex than another, be +specific about how and why. -You should always try to use as few words as possible to explain a particular feature, configuration, or process. Conciseness leads to more accurate and understandable writing. +For example, don't write, "Netdata's one-line installer is the easiest way to install Netdata." Instead, you might want +to say, "Netdata's one-line installer requires fewer steps than manually installing from source." -### Use informational hyperlinks +### Slang, metaphors, and jargon -Hyperlinks should clearly state its destination. Don't use words like "here" to describe where a link will take your reader. +A particular word, phrase, or metaphor you're familiar with might not translate well to the other cultures featured +among Netdata's global community. We recommended you avoid slang or colloquialisms in your writing. -``` -# Not recommended -To install Netdata, click [here](https://docs.netdata.cloud/packaging/installer/). +In addition, don't use abbreviations that have not yet been defined in the content. See our section on +[abbreviations](#abbreviations-acronyms-and-initialisms) for additional guidance. -# Recommended -To install Netdata, read our [installation instructions](https://docs.netdata.cloud/packaging/installer/). -``` +If you must use industry jargon, such as "mean time to resolution," define the term as clearly and concisely as you can. -In general, guides should include fewer hyperlinks to keep the reader focused on the task at hand. Documentation should include as many hyperlinks as necessary to provide meaningful context. +> Netdata helps you reduce your organization's mean time to resolution (MTTR), which is the average time the responsible +> team requires to repair a system and resolve an ongoing incident. -### Avoid words like "easy" or "simple" +### Spelling -Never assume readers of Netdata documentation are experts in Netdata's inner workings or health monitoring/performance troubleshooting in general. +While the Netdata team is mostly _not_ American, we still aspire to use American spelling whenever possible, as it is +the standard for the monitoring industry. -If you claim that a task is easy and the reader struggles to complete it, they'll get discouraged. +See the [word list](#word-list) for spellings of specific words. -If you perceive one option to be easier than another, be specific about how and why. For example, don't write, "Netdata's one-line installer is the easiest way to install Netdata." Instead, you might want to say, "Netdata's one-line installer requires fewer steps than manually installing from source." +### Capitalization -### Avoid slang, metaphors, and jargon +Follow the general [English standards](https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/mechanics/help_with_capitals.html) for +capitalization. In summary: -A particular word, phrase, or metaphor you're familiar with might not translate well to the other cultures featured among Netdata's global community. It's recommended you avoid slang or colloquialisms in your writing. +- Capitalize the first word of every new sentence. +- Don't use uppercase for emphasis. (Netdata is the BEST!) +- Capitalize the names of brands, software, products, and companies according to their official guidelines. (Netdata, + Docker, Apache, NGINX) +- Avoid camel case (NetData) or all caps (NETDATA). -If you must use industry jargon, such as "white-box monitoring," in a document, be sure to define the term as clearly and concisely as you can. +Whenever you refer to the company Netdata, Inc., or the open-source monitoring agent the company develops, capitalize +**Netdata**. -> White-box monitoring: Monitoring of a system or application based on the metrics it directly exposes, such as logs. +However, if you are referring to a process, user, or group on a Linux system, use lowercase and fence the word in an +inline code block: `` `netdata` ``. -Avoid emojis whenever possible for the same reasons—they can be difficult to understand immediately and don't translate well. +| | | +|-----------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | The netdata agent, which spawns the netdata process, is actively maintained by netdata, inc. | +| **Recommended** | The Netdata Agent, which spawns the `netdata` process, is actively maintained by Netdata, Inc. | -### Mentioning future releases or features +#### Capitalization of document titles and page headings -Documentation is meant to describe the product as-is, not as it will be or could be in the future. Netdata documentation generally avoids talking about future features or products, even if we know they are inevitable. +Document titles and page headings should use sentence case. That means you should only capitalize the first word. -An exception can be made for documenting beta features that are subject to change with further development. +If you need to use the name of a brand, software, product, and company, capitalize it according to their official +guidelines. -## Language and grammar +Also, don't put a period (`.`) or colon (`:`) at the end of a title or header. -Netdata's documentation should be consistent in the way it uses certain words, phrases, and grammar. The following sections will outline the preferred usage for capitalization, point of view, active voice, and more. +| | | +|-----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | Getting Started Guide <br />Service Discovery and Auto-Detection: <br />Install netdata with docker | +| **Recommended** | Getting started guide <br />Service discovery and auto-detection <br />Install Netdata with Docker | -### Capitalization +### Abbreviations (acronyms and initialisms) -In text, follow the general [English standards](https://owl.purdue.edu/owl/general_writing/mechanics/help_with_capitals.html) for capitalization. In summary: +Use abbreviations (including [acronyms and initialisms](https://www.dictionary.com/e/acronym-vs-abbreviation/)) in +documentation when one exists, when it's widely accepted within the monitoring/sysadmin community, and when it improves +the readability of a document. -- Capitalize the first word of every new sentence. -- Don't use uppercase for emphasis. (Netdata is the BEST!) -- Capitalize the names of brands, software, products, and companies according to their official guidelines. (Netdata, Docker, Apache, Nginx) -- Avoid camel case (NetData) or all caps (NETDATA). +When introducing an abbreviation to a document for the first time, give the reader both the spelled-out version and the +shortened version at the same time. For example: -#### Capitalization of 'Netdata' and 'netdata' +> Use Netdata to monitor Extended Berkeley Packet Filter (eBPF) metrics in real-time. -Whenever you refer to the company Netdata, Inc., or the open-source monitoring agent the company develops, capitalize **Netdata**. +After you define an abbreviation, don't switch back and forth. Use only the abbreviation for the rest of the document. -However, if you are referring to a process, user, or group on a Linux system, you should not capitalize, as by default those are typically lowercased. In this case, you should also fence these terms in an inline code block: `` `netdata` ``. +You can also use abbreviations in a document's title to keep the title short and relevant. If you do this, you should +still introduce the spelled-out name alongside the abbreviation as soon as possible. -``` -# Not recommended -The netdata agent, which spawns the netdata process, is actively maintained by netdata, inc. +### Clause order -# Recommended -The Netdata agent, which spawns the `netdata` process, is actively maintained by Netdata, Inc. -``` +When instructing users to take action, give them the context first. By placing the context in an initial clause at the +beginning of the sentence, users can immediately know if they want to read more, follow a link, or skip ahead. -#### Capitalization of document titles and page headings +| | | +|-----------------|--------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | Read the reference guide if you'd like to learn more about custom dashboards. | +| **Recommended** | If you'd like to learn more about custom dashboards, read the reference guide. | -Document titles and page headings should use sentence case. That means you should only capitalize the first word. +### Oxford comma -If you need to use the name of a brand, software, product, and company, capitalize it according to their official guidelines. +The Oxford comma is the comma used after the second-to-last item in a list of three or more items. It appears just +before "and" or "or." -Also, don't put a period (`.`) or colon (`:`) at the end of a title or header. +| | | +|-----------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | Netdata can monitor RAM, disk I/O, MySQL queries per second and lm-sensors. | +| **Recommended** | Netdata can monitor RAM, disk I/O, MySQL queries per second, and lm-sensors. | -**Document titles**: +### Future releases or features -| Capitalization | Not recommended | Recommended -| --- | --- | --- -| Document titles | Getting Started Guide | Getting started guide -| Page headings | Service Discovery and Auto-Detection: | Service discovery and auto-detection -| Proper nouns | Install netdata with docker | Install Netdata with Docker +Do not mention future releases or upcoming features in writing unless they have been previously communicated via a +public roadmap. -### Second person +In particular, documentation must describe, as accurately as possible, the Netdata Agent _as of the [latest +commit](https://github.com/netdata/netdata/commits/master) in the GitHub repository_. For Netdata Cloud, documentation +must reflect the _current state of [production](https://app.netdata.cloud). -When writing documentation, you should use the second person ("you") to give instructions. When using the second person, you give the impression that you're personally leading your reader through the steps or tips in question. +### Informational links -See how that works? It's a core part of making Netdata's documentation feel welcoming to all. +Every link should clearly state its destination. Don't use words like "here" to describe where a link will take your +reader. -Avoid using "we," "I," "let's," and "us" in documentation whenever possible. +| | | +|-----------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | To install Netdata, click [here](/packaging/installer/README.md). | +| **Recommended** | To install Netdata, read the [installation instructions](/packaging/installer/README.md). | -The "you" pronoun can also be implied, depending on your sentence structure. +Use links as often as required to provide necessary context. Blog posts and guides require less hyperlinks than +documentation. See the section on [linking between documentation](#linking-between-documentation) for guidance on the +Markdown syntax and path structure of inter-documentation links. -``` -# Not recommended -To install Netdata, we should try the one-line installer... +### Contractions -# Recommended -To install Netdata, you should try the one-line installer... +Contractions like "you'll" or "they're" are acceptable in most Netdata writing. They're both authentic and playful, and +reinforce the idea that you, as a writer, are guiding users through a particular idea, process, or feature. -# Recommended, implied "you" -To install Netdata, try the one-line installer... -``` +Contractions are generally not used in press releases or other media engagements. -### Active voice +### Emoji -Use active voice instead of passive voice, because active voice is more concise and easier to understand. +Emoji can add fun and character to your writing, but should be used sparingly and only if it matches the content's tone +and desired audience. -When using voice, the subject of the sentence is performing the action. In passive voice, the subject is being acted upon. A famous example of passive voice is the phrase "mistakes were made." +## Technical/Linux standards -``` -# Not recommended (passive) -When an alarm is triggered by a metric, a notification is sent by Netdata... +Configuration or maintenance of the Netdata Agent requires some system administration skills, such as navigating +directories, editing files, or starting/stopping/restarting services. Certain processes + +### Switching Linux users + +Netdata documentation often suggests that users switch from their normal user to the `netdata` user to run specific +commands. Use the following command to instruct users to make the switch: -# Recommended (active) -When a metric triggers an alarm, Netdata sends a notification... +```bash +sudo su -s /bin/bash netdata ``` -### Standard American spelling +### Hostname/IP address of a node -While the Netdata team is mostly *not* American, we still aspire to use American spelling whenever possible, as it is more commonly used within the monitoring industry. +Use `NODE` instead of an actual or example IP address/hostname when referencing the process of navigating to a dashboard +or API endpoint in a browser. -### Clause order +| | | +|-----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | Navigate to `http://example.com:19999` in your browser to see Netdata's dashboard. <br />Navigate to `http://203.0.113.0:19999` in your browser to see Netdata's dashboard. | +| **Recommended** | Navigate to `http://NODE:19999` in your browser to see Netdata's dashboard. | -If you want to instruct your reader to take some action in a particular circumstance, such as optional steps, the beginning of the sentence should indicate that circumstance. +If you worry that `NODE` doesn't provide enough context for the user, particularly in documentation or guides designed +for beginners, you can provide an explanation: -``` -# Not recommended -Read the reference guide if you'd like to learn more about custom dashboards. +> With the Netdata Agent running, visit `http://NODE:19999/api/v1/info` in your browser, replacing `NODE` with the IP +> address or hostname of your Agent. -# Recommended -If you'd like to learn more about custom dashboards, read the reference guide. -``` +### Paths and running commands -By placing the circumstance at the beginning of the sentence, those who don't want to follow can stop reading and move on. Those who *do* want to read it are less likely to skip over the sentence. +When instructing users to run a Netdata-specific command, don't assume the path to said command, because not every +Netdata Agent installation will have commands under the same paths. When applicable, help them navigate to the correct +path, providing a recommendation or instructions on how to view the running configuration, which includes the correct +paths. -### Oxford comma +For example, the [configuration](/docs/configure/nodes.md) doc first teaches users how to find the Netdata config +directory and navigate to it, then runs commands from the `/etc/netdata` path so that the instructions are more +universal. -The Oxford comma is the comma used after the second-to-last item in a list of three or more items. It appears just before "and" or "or." +Don't include full paths, beginning from the system's root (`/`), as these might not work on certain systems. -``` -# Not recommended -Netdata can monitor RAM, disk I/O, MySQL queries per second and lm-sensors. +| | | +|-----------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | Use `edit-config` to edit Netdata's configuration: `sudo /etc/netdata/edit-config netdata.conf`. | +| **Recommended** | Use `edit-config` to edit Netdata's configuration by first navigating to your [Netdata config directory](/docs/configure/nodes.md#the-netdata-config-directory), which is typically at `/etc/netdata`, then running `sudo edit-config netdata.conf`. | -# Recommended -Netdata can monitor RAM, disk I/O, MySQL queries per second, and lm-sensors. -``` +### `sudo` + +Include `sudo` before a command if you believe most Netdata users will need to elevate privileges to run it. This makes +our writing more universal, and users on `sudo`-less systems are generally already aware that they need to run commands +differently. + +For example, most users need to use `sudo` with the `edit-config` script, because the Netdata config directory is owned +by the `netdata` user. Same goes for restarting the Netdata Agent with `systemctl`. + +| | | +|-----------------|----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| Not recommended | Run `edit-config netdata.conf` to configure the Netdata Agent. <br />Run `systemctl restart netdata` to restart the Netdata Agent. | +| **Recommended** | Run `sudo edit-config netdata.conf` to configure the Netdata Agent. <br />Run `sudo systemctl restart netdata` to restart the Netdata Agent. | ## Markdown syntax -The Netdata documentation uses the Markdown syntax for styling and formatting. If you're not familiar with how it works, please read the [Markdown introduction post](https://daringfireball.net/projects/markdown/) by its creator, followed by [Mastering Markdown](https://guides.github.com/features/mastering-markdown/) guide from GitHub. +Netdata's documentation uses Markdown syntax. -We also leverage the power of the [Material theme for MkDocs](https://squidfunk.github.io/mkdocs-material/), which features several [extensions](https://squidfunk.github.io/mkdocs-material/extensions/admonition/), such as the ability to create notes, warnings, and collapsible blocks. +If you're not familiar with Markdown, read the [Mastering +Markdown](https://guides.github.com/features/mastering-markdown/) guide from GitHub for the basics on creating +paragraphs, styled text, lists, tables, and more. -You can follow the syntax specified in the above resources for the majority of documents, but the following sections specify a few particular use cases. +The following sections describe situations in which a specific syntax is required. -### References to UI elements +### Syntax standards (`remark-lint`) + +The Netdata team uses [`remark-lint`](https://github.com/remarkjs/remark-lint) for Markdown code styling. + +- Use a maximum of 120 characters per line. +- Begin headings with hashes, such as `# H1 heading`, `## H2 heading`, and so on. +- Use `_` for italics/emphasis. +- Use `**` for bold. +- Use dashes `-` to begin an unordered list, and put a single space after the dash. +- Tables should be padded so that pipes line up vertically with added whitespace. + +If you want to see all the settings, open the +[`remarkrc.js`](https://github.com/netdata/netdata/blob/master/.remarkrc.js) file in the `netdata/netdata` repository. + +### Frontmatter + +Every document must begin with frontmatter, followed by an H1 (`#`) heading. + +Unlike typical Markdown frontmatter, Netdata uses HTML comments (`<!--`, `-->`) to begin and end the frontmatter block. +These HTML comments are later converted into typical frontmatter syntax when building [Netdata +Learn](https://learn.netdata.cloud). + +Frontmatter _must_ contain the following variables: + +- A `title` that quickly and distinctly describes the document's content. +- A `description` that elaborates on the purpose or goal of the document using no less than 100 characters and no more + than 155 characters. +- A `custom_edit_url` that links directly to the GitHub URL where another user could suggest additional changes to the + published document. + +Some documents, like the Ansible guide and others in the `/docs/guides` folder, require an `image` variable as well. In +this case, replace `/docs` with `/img/seo`, and then rebuild the remainder of the path to the document in question. End +the path with `.png`. A member of the Netdata team will assist in creating the image when publishing the content. -If you need to instruct your reader to click a user interface (UI) element inside of a Netdata interface, you should reference the label text of the link/button with Markdown's (`**bold text**`) tag. +For example, here is the frontmatter for the guide about [deploying the Netdata Agent with +Ansible](https://learn.netdata.cloud/guides/deploy/ansible). ```markdown -Click on the **Sign in** button. +<!-- +title: Deploy Netdata with Ansible +description: "Deploy an infrastructure monitoring solution in minutes with the Netdata Agent and Ansible. Use and customize a simple playbook for monitoring as code." +image: /img/seo/guides/deploy/ansible.png +custom_edit_url: https://github.com/netdata/netdata/edit/master/docs/guides/deploy/ansible.md +--> + +# Deploy Netdata with Ansible + +... ``` -!!! note - Whenever possible, avoid using directional language to orient readers, because not every reader can use instructions like "look at the top-left corner" to find their way around an interface. +Questions about frontmatter in documentation? [Ask on our community +forum](https://community.netdata.cloud/c/blog-posts-and-articles/6). + +### Linking between documentation + +Documentation should link to relevant pages whenever it's relevant and provides valuable context to the reader. + +Links should always reference the full path to the document, beginning at the root of the Netdata Agent repository +(`/`), and ending with the `.md` file extension. Avoid relative links or traversing up directories using `../`. +For example, if you want to link to our node configuration document, link to `/docs/configure/nodes.md`. To reference +the guide for deploying the Netdata Agent with Ansible, link to `/docs/guides/deploy/ansible.md`. + +### References to UI elements + +When referencing a user interface (UI) element in Netdata, reference the label text of the link/button with Markdown's +(`**bold text**`) tag. + +```markdown +Click the **Sign in** button. ``` -If you feel that you must use directional language, perhaps use an [image](#images) (with proper alt text) instead. -We're also working to establish standards for how we refer to certain elements of the Netdata's web interface. We'll include that in this style guide as soon as it's complete. +Avoid directional language whenever possible. Not every user can use instructions like "look at the top-left corner" to +find their way around an interface, and interfaces often change between devices. If you must use directional language, +try to supplement the text with an [image](#images). + +### Images + +Don't rely on images to convey features, ideas, or instructions. Accompany every image with descriptive alt text. + +In Markdown, use the standard image syntax, `![]()`, and place the alt text between the brackets `[]`. Here's an example +using our logo: + +```markdown + ``` -### Language-specific syntax highlighting in code blocks +Reference in-product text, code samples, and terminal output with actual text content, not screen captures or other +images. Place the text in an appropriate element, such as a blockquote or code block, so all users can parse the +information. -Our documentation uses the [Highlight extension](https://facelessuser.github.io/pymdown-extensions/extensions/highlight/) for syntax highlighting. Highlight is fully compatible with [Pygments](http://pygments.org/), allowing you to highlight the syntax within code blocks in a number of interesting ways. +### Syntax highlighting -For a full list of languages, see [Pygment's supported languages](http://pygments.org/languages/). Netdata documentation will use the following for the most part: `c`, `python`, `js`, `shell`, `markdown`, `bash`, `css`, `html`, and `go`. If no language is specified, the Highlight extension doesn't apply syntax highlighting. +Our documentation site at [learn.netdata.cloud](https://learn.netdata.cloud) uses +[Prism](https://v2.docusaurus.io/docs/markdown-features#syntax-highlighting) for syntax highlighting. Netdata +documentation will use the following for the most part: `c`, `python`, `js`, `shell`, `markdown`, `bash`, `css`, `html`, +and `go`. If no language is specified, Prism tries to guess the language based on its content. -Include the language directly after the three backticks (```` ``` ````) that start the code block. For highlighting C code, for example: +Include the language directly after the three backticks (```` ``` ````) that start the code block. For highlighting C +code, for example: -```` +````c ```c inline char *health_stock_config_dir(void) { char buffer[FILENAME_MAX + 1]; @@ -285,35 +458,35 @@ inline char *health_stock_config_dir(void) { } ``` -You can also use the Highlight and [SuperFences](https://facelessuser.github.io/pymdown-extensions/extensions/superfences/) extensions together to show line numbers or highlight specific lines. +Prism also supports titles and line highlighting. See the [Docusaurus +documentation](https://v2.docusaurus.io/docs/markdown-features#code-blocks) for more information. -Display line numbers by appending `linenums="1"` after the language declaration, replacing `1` with the starting line number of your choice. Highlight lines by appending `hl_lines="2"`, replacing `2` with the line you'd like to highlight. Or, multiple lines: `hl_lines="1 2 4 12`. +## Word list -!!! note - Line numbers and highlights are not compatible with GitHub's Markdown parser, and thus will only be viewable on our [documentation site](https://docs.netdata.cloud/). They should be used sparingly and only when necessary. +The following tables describe the standard spelling, capitalization, and usage of words found in Netdata's writing. -## Accessibility +### Netdata-specific terms -Netdata's documentation should be as accessible as possible to as many people as possible. While the rules about [tone and content](#tone-and-content) and [language and grammar](#language-and-grammar) are helpful to an extent, we also need some additional rules to improve the reading experience for all readers. - -### Images - -Images are an important component to documentation, which is why we have a few rules around their usage. - -Perhaps most importantly, don't use only images to convey instructions. Each image should be accompanied by alt text and text-based instructions to ensure that every reader can access the information in the best way for them. - -#### Alt text - -Provide alt text for every image you include in Netdata's documentation. It should summarize the intent and content of the image. - -In Markdown, use the standard image syntax, `![]()`, and place the alt text between the brackets `[]`. Here's an example using our logo: - -``` - -``` +| Term | Definition | +|-----------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| **claimed node** | A node that you've proved ownership of by completing the [claiming process](/claim/README.md). The claimed node will then appear in your Space and any War Rooms you added it to. | +| **Netdata** | The company behind the open-source Netdata Agent and the Netdata Cloud web application. Never use _netdata_ or _NetData_. <br /><br />In general, focus on the user's goals, actions, and solutions rather than what the company provides. For example, write _Learn more about enabling alarm notifications on your preferred platforms_ instead of _Netdata sends alarm notifications to your preferred platforms_. | +| **Netdata Agent** | The free and open source [monitoring agent](https://github.com/netdata/netdata) that you can install on all of your distributed systems, whether they're physical, virtual, containerized, ephemeral, and more. The Agent monitors systems running Linux, Docker, Kubernetes, macOS, FreeBSD, and more, and collects metrics from hundreds of popular services and applications. | +| **Netdata Cloud** | The web application hosted at [https://app.netdata.cloud](https://app.netdata.cloud) that helps you monitor an entire infrastructure of distributed systems in real time. <br /><br />Never use _Cloud_ without the preceding _Netdata_ to avoid ambiguity. | +| **Netdata community** | Contributors to any of Netdata's [open-source projects](https://learn.netdata.cloud/contribute/projects), members of the [community forum](https://community.netdata.cloud/). | +| **Netdata community forum** | The Discourse-powered forum for feature requests, Netdata Cloud technical support, and conversations about Netdata's monitoring and troubleshooting products. | +| **node** | A system on which the Netdata Agent is installed. The system can be physical, virtual, in a Docker container, and more. Depending on your infrastructure, you may have one, dozens, or hundreds of nodes. Some nodes are _ephemeral_, in that they're created/destroyed automatically by an orchestrator service. | +| **Space** | The highest level container within Netdata Cloud for a user to organize their team members and nodes within their infrastructure. A Space likely represents an entire organization or a large team. <br /><br />_Space_ is always capitalized. | +| **unreachable node** | A claimed node with a disrupted [Agent-Cloud link](/aclk/README.md). Unreachable could mean the node no longer exists or is experiencing network connectivity issues with Cloud. | +| **visited node** | A node which has had its Agent dashboard directly visited by a user. A list of these is maintained on a per-user basis. | +| **War Room** | A smaller grouping of nodes where users can view key metrics in real-time and monitor the health of many nodes with their alarm status. War Rooms can be used to organize nodes in any way that makes sense for your infrastructure, such as by a service, purpose, physical location, and more. <br /><br />_War Room_ is always capitalized. | -#### Images of text +### Other technical terms -Don't use images of text, code samples, or terminal output. Instead, put that text content in a code block so that all devices can render it clearly and screen readers can parse it. +| Term | Definition | +|-----------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| +| **filesystem** | Use instead of _file system_. | +| **preconfigured** | The concept that many of Netdata's features come with sane defaults that users don't need to configure to find [immediate value](/docs/overview/why-netdata.md#simple-to-deploy). | +| **real time**/**real-time** | Use _real time_ as a noun phrase, most often with _in_: _Netdata collects metrics in real time_. Use _real-time_ as an adjective: _Netdata collects real-time metrics from hundreds of supported applications and services. | [](<>) |