Learn API Technical Writing: JSON and XML for Writers

Module 1: Introduction to API Documentation

⏳ 20 minutes

• Define API documentation and its importance for developer adoption.

• Compare static docs vs. interactive docs and their pros and cons.

• Overview of common documentation formats and tools.

Module 2: JSON Fundamentals

⏳ 30 minutes

• Understand JSON syntax: objects, arrays, and primitive types.

• Learn how to format and validate JSON payloads.

• Explore real-world examples of JSON request and response bodies.

Module 3: XML Basics

⏳ 30 minutes

• Grasp XML structure: elements, attributes, and namespaces.

• Use XML schemas (XSD) to enforce data integrity.

• Convert between JSON and XML representations.

Module 4: OpenAPI/Swagger Specifications

⏳ 45 minutes

• Install and configure Swagger Editor for writing API specs.

• Define paths, operations, parameters, and schemas in YAML/JSON.

• Use $ref for reusable components and maintainable docs.

Module 5: Generating Interactive Documentation

⏳ 30 minutes

• Deploy Swagger UI to host live API docs.

• Customize Redoc themes and embed docs in a developer portal.

• Enable “Try It Out” functionality for hands-on testing.

Module 6: Best Practices for API Docs

⏳ 30 minutes

• Version your API documentation and manage changelogs.

• Document error responses with standardized schemas.

• Write clear descriptions, code samples, and usage notes.

Module 7: Hands-On Lab: Document a Sample API

⏳ 45 minutes

• Apply learned concepts to document a mock “Todo” REST API.

• Validate your OpenAPI spec and fix common errors.

• Share your documentation via a public Swagger UI instance.

Module 8: Next Steps & Maintenance

⏳ 20 minutes

• Automate doc generation with CI/CD pipelines.

• Integrate real-time updates with tools like Stoplight or Postman.

• Plan ongoing maintenance and community feedback loops.

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