Use Boost Docs First
Goal
Avoid incorrect or outdated implementations by verifying the approach using Laravel Boost’s search-docs tool before
writing code.
This skill applies to Laravel ecosystem features where behaviour, APIs, or best practices vary by version.
When to Apply
Use Boost search-docs before coding when the task involves any of the following:
- Laravel framework features (routing, middleware, validation, queues, auth)
- Livewire (including Volt and Livewire 3 behaviour)
- Flux UI (free or pro components)
- Fortify authentication features
- Tailwind CSS v4 utilities or patterns
- Pest v4 testing features
- Horizon, Pulse, Nightwatch, or other Laravel first-party packages
If you are unsure about syntax, behaviour, or best practice, assume this skill applies.
How to Apply
-
Start with
search-docsusing broad, simple queries
Examples:['livewire pagination']['fortify registration']['tailwind v4 grid']['pest browser test']
-
Narrow the query only if needed after reviewing initial results.
-
Verify the approach against:
- Installed package versions
- Existing project patterns in sibling files
-
Only proceed to implementation once the documented approach is confirmed.
What NOT to Do
- Do not rely on general Laravel knowledge if documentation is available.
- Do not guess APIs or options when Boost can confirm them.
- Do not copy patterns from older Laravel, Livewire, or Tailwind versions without verification.
Exceptions
You may skip search-docs if:
- The change is trivial and already follows an existing, identical pattern in the codebase.
- The user explicitly instructs you to proceed without documentation lookup.
Anti-patterns
- Writing code first and checking docs afterward.
- Mixing documentation from different major versions.
- Assuming behaviour based on pre-Laravel 11 conventions.