Shell Script Builder

Overview

Create cross-shell scripts that are safe, idempotent, and clear in their output.

Required Inputs

• Target shells (Bash, Zsh, or POSIX sh).
• OS constraints and required tools.
• Install locations and config files to modify.
• Whether the script should be non-interactive.

Workflow

1. Confirm compatibility constraints.
   • Prefer POSIX-compatible syntax when possible.
   • Avoid arrays and bashisms unless explicitly allowed.
2. Design idempotence and safety.
   • Use command -v for existence checks.
   • Guard file edits with checks to avoid duplicate lines.
3. Implement predictable output.
   • Use clear status messages and exit codes.
   • For reminder scripts, print literal reminders instead of executing commands.
4. Handle installation steps.
   • Prefer and explicit shell-config edits.