API Reference Document

An API Reference Document is a software system technical reference document that describes an API.

• Example(s):
  • an OpenAI API Reference Document (for OpenAI API).
  • …
• Counter-Example(s):
  • an SDK Document.
  • a Framework Document.
• See: API Endpoint Specification.

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References

2023

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  • API documentation is a comprehensive guide that provides developers with all the necessary information to understand, integrate, and interact with an API (Application Programming Interface). Typical API documentation includes:
    • Overview: A brief introduction to the API, its purpose, and main features.
    • Authentication: Instructions on how to authenticate and authorize users, usually by generating and using API keys, tokens, or OAuth.
    • Endpoints: A list of available API endpoints or methods, detailing the URL, HTTP method, request parameters, and expected responses.
    • Request and response formats: Explanation of the data formats used for requests and responses, such as JSON, XML, or others.
    • Error codes and messages: A list of possible error codes and messages that can be returned by the API, along with explanations and potential solutions.
    • Rate limits: Information on the number of requests allowed per user, per time period, to prevent abuse of the API.
    • Code examples and SDKs: Sample code snippets in various programming languages and SDKs (Software Development Kits) to make integration easier and faster.
    • Changelog: A history of API updates, new features, bug fixes, and deprecated functionalities.
    • Support and contact information: Contact details for the API support team or a link to a community forum.

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