BYO · build-your-own-developer-tool
Build Your Own Developer Tool
Turn a repetitive engineering chore into a small, reliable tool people want to keep using.
2 chapters · 6 lessons · ~85 min
01 · Curriculum
chapter 01
Find and frame a workflow
Start with a real annoyance and define an interface that earns its place.
- Pick a painful repetitive task← you left off hereChoose one small workflow whose repetition makes its cost visible.
- Design a small command interface← you left off hereName inputs and outputs so the tool is discoverable before it is powerful.
- Implement the happy path← you left off hereBuild the smallest useful operation and keep its behavior obvious.
chapter 02
Make it reliable
Handle inputs, failure, and release details with the care of a daily tool.
- Read config and files safely← you left off hereTreat the local environment as valuable input, not a disposable sandbox.
- Test edge cases← you left off hereTurn awkward inputs and failures into an explicit part of the contract.
- Package your first release← you left off hereMake installation, versioning, and a helpful first run feel complete.