# Aip > Google API Improvement Proposals (AIP) reference. Use BEFORE designing or reviewing APIs, protobuf definitions, or any work involving Google API design standards. Fetches relevant AIP rules from https://google.aip.dev for the task at hand. Use when this capability is needed. - Skill: `tomevault-io/aip` (Agent Skill, multi-file: 2 files) - Install (CLI): `npx skillmds@latest add tomevault-io/aip` - Raw SKILL.md: https://api.skillmd.com/api/skills/tomevault-io/aip/raw - Safety review: pending (external: skill-scanner PASS, skillspector PASS) - Works with: Claude Code, Claude.ai, OpenAI Codex - Category: Integrations & APIs - Author: tomevault-io (https://skillmd.com/u/tomevault-io) - Updated: 2026-09-17 - Page: https://skillmd.com/skills/tomevault-io/aip --- # Google API Improvement Proposals (AIP) When working on API design, protobuf definitions, or any task involving Google API standards, refresh your understanding of the relevant AIP rules. ## Critical Rule **NEVER assume you know what an AIP rule says from memory.** Always fetch and read the actual AIP documentation before applying or referencing any rule. Your memory of AIP rules may be inaccurate or outdated. ## Process 1. **Browse the AIP index** - Go to https://google.aip.dev/general to see all available AIP guidelines 2. **Identify relevant AIPs** - Based on the task at hand, determine which AIP rules may apply 3. **Fetch and read the relevant AIPs** - Use WebFetch to retrieve the specific AIP pages. Do NOT skip this step, even if you think you know what the rule says 4. **Apply the standards** - Ensure your work follows the AIP guidelines as documented ## When to Invoke This Skill - Designing new API endpoints or protobuf messages - Reviewing API changes in PRs - Implementing resource-oriented services - Naming fields, methods, or resources - Working with `google.api` annotations --- > Converted and distributed by [TomeVault](https://tomevault.io/claim/fredrikaverpil) — claim your Tome and manage your conversions.