1. "Docs for Developers: An Engineer’s Field Guide to Technical Writing" by Jared Bhatti et al.
Summary*:* Co-authored by a team of experienced engineers, this book provides hands-on strategies to help developers produce high-quality documentation. It’s full of tips, frameworks, and real-world examples for those who are building technical documentation from scratch.
Why Read It*:* This book speaks directly to developers and engineers, making it accessible for readers who might be new to documentation. The authors acknowledge that tech folks often dread writing docs, so they’ve made it concise, relatable, and surprisingly fun.
2. "Docs Like Code" by Anne Gentle
Summary*:* In this modern approach to technical documentation, Anne Gentle introduces the "Docs as Code" methodology, where documentation is treated as a collaborative software project. The book covers everything from content workflows to using version control for docs.
Why Read It*:* If you’re working in a DevOps environment or want to improve team collaboration on docs, this is the book for you. Plus, who wouldn’t want to say they’re a "docs as code" expert?
3. "REST API Design Rulebook" by Mark Masse
Summary*:* Masse focuses on best practices for designing and documenting RESTful APIs. He covers the principles of REST and explains how to create a standardized and understandable API design.
Why Read It*:* For those who are deeply involved in RESTful API design and documentation, this is a must-read. It doesn’t just tell you what to do; it explains why.
4. "Designing APIs with Swagger and OpenAPI" by Josh Ponelat and Lukas Rosenstock
Summary*:* This book dives into how to design and document APIs using OpenAPI specifications. It’s filled with best practices, from organizing endpoints to writing clear, understandable descriptions.
Why Read It*:* If you’re a hands-on learner and want to build proficiency in OpenAPI, this guide is packed with practical insights.
5. "API Design Patterns" by JJ Geewax
Summary*:* Geewax’s book covers both API design and the documentation practices that go with it. He explores design patterns, anti-patterns, and ways to ensure consistency across APIs.
Why Read It*:* You’ll get a two-for-one deal: design patterns and documentation insights. This book is an excellent pick for anyone involved in API architecture.
6. "Designing Web APIs" by Brenda Jin, Saurabh Sahni, and Amir Shevat
Summary*:* This book goes beyond documentation to cover the full lifecycle of web API design. Documentation is treated as a crucial component of the API ecosystem.
Why Read It*:* If you’re looking for a holistic approach that integrates design and documentation, this is a fantastic resource.
7. "API Product Management" by Deepa Goyal
Summary*:* Goyal’s book explores API documentation as a product, focusing on customer needs, user experience, and the value of well-crafted docs in API success.
Why Read It*:* You’ll gain a fresh perspective on API documentation as a product, rather than just a tool. Perfect for anyone in product management or UX.
8. "The API University Series" by Matthias Biehl
Summary*:* Biehl’s series covers different aspects of APIs, including documentation, design, and security. Each book in the series delves into a specific topic in detail.
Why Read It*:* It’s a flexible option: pick the topics you want to focus on, and dive deep. Biehl’s writing is clear and detailed, making complex topics approachable.
Conclusion
Whether you’re an engineer, technical writer, or product manager, mastering API documentation is a skill that will serve you well. Each book on this list offers something unique — from foundational writing tips to advanced techniques for working with tools like Swagger and OpenAPI. So, pick up a book (or two), start reading, and bring your API documentation game to the next level. With these books as your guides, you’ll be equipped to tackle everything from basic REST principles to advanced techniques in documentation workflows, design, and user engagement. And remember: good documentation isn’t just about explaining an API; it’s about making the user’s journey smoother and more enjoyable. So dive into these resources, hone your skills, and transform your documentation from merely functional to exceptional. Happy reading, and here’s to better API docs for all!
Frequently Asked Questions
Begin with the basics, then practice on a small, real API. 1) Learn core concepts: endpoints, methods, request/response bodies, status codes, auth, and error handling. 2) Pick a simple public API and document one endpoint end‑to‑end: overview, auth, parameters, request/response examples, errors, and a quickstart. 3) Read beginner‑friendly books: Docs for Developers is an excellent, hands‑on starting point; Designing Web APIs gives you the big picture across the API lifecycle; and the API University Series lets you dive deep into specific topics as you go. 4) Adopt OpenAPI early so your examples and schemas stay consistent. 5) Keep your docs in Git (Markdown is fine) to learn a lightweight review workflow. As you get comfortable, add Docs Like Code to your reading list to level up your processes, automation, and collaboration.
