Keep API documentation current: six checks after code changes
3 min read
Keeping API documentation current means aligning what callers send, what they receive, and whether existing usage remains valid. Updating a schema alone does not finish that work.
Six checks after a change
- Requests: required and optional parameters and defaults.
- Responses: field names, types, and nullability.
- Authentication: headers, permissions, and token requirements.
- Errors: status codes and handling guidance.
- Examples: run the copied request and code samples.
- Compatibility: check existing callers and migration guidance.
A field rename example
Suppose status becomes payment_status. Replacing the name alone may miss changes to its meaning or existing callers. Check the commit and tests, then record the team's decision about support for the old field. This is an illustrative example, not a customer case study.
OpenAPI and explanatory documentation
OpenAPI is a standard for describing HTTP API interfaces. Even with a schema, review explanations for authentication, retry decisions, and migration. Use the official specification to distinguish interface definitions from team guidance. This guide does not imply that Specify automatically integrates with every OpenAPI tool.
Review updates in Specify
Connect GitHub sources to a documentation project and create or manage the related API documents. Compare the proposed before-and-after changes and evidence with the actual interface. Update behavior follows project settings and the applicable policy. Start with the GitHub integration guide.
Keep a review record
Record the commit, affected endpoints, changed requests and responses, tested examples, compatibility decision, and reviewer. Automation can prepare the material; the team still checks the usage contract.
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