Docs For OpenClaw
Write the minimum documentation that prevents future confusion.
Process
- Identify what changed and who needs the knowledge.
- Prefer updating the closest existing document over adding a new random file.
- Explain behavior and decisions, not just mechanics.
- Keep instructions aligned with what was actually verified.
- Remove or correct stale guidance when you find it.
Documentation Rules
- Document why when the reason is not obvious from the code.
- Keep setup or operational steps concrete.
- Do not describe states that no longer exist.
- If a rule is important enough to repeat often, encode it into a skill or durable reference.
OpenClaw Guidance
- Use
AGENTS.md,TOOLS.md, daily memory, and project-local docs for durable context when appropriate. - Do not put sensitive tokens, secrets, or private data into reusable docs.
- Prefer documentation that helps future agents act correctly without re-discovering the same lesson.