Compare Libraries Accurately

DOCS-COMPARE-LIBRARIES-ACCURATELY

Summary

Check current upstream behavior before comparing nearby libraries or crates. Charitable, source-backed comparisons preserve trust while still helping users choose.

Rule

Compare nearby libraries accurately and charitably.

Why

Comparisons with nearby libraries affect trust. If a doc overstates another crate's weakness, ignores its current API, or frames a tradeoff unfairly, readers learn that the project is arguing rather than explaining when to choose which tool.

Helps

  • Makes comparison docs credible and helps users choose based on real constraints instead of positioning language.

Limits

Do not add comparison sections unless users need them. When comparison is useful, compare current documented behavior, not old memory or private preference.

Agent Instruction

Compare nearby libraries accurately and charitably; inaccurate comparisons undermine trust.

Mechanisms

Supported by source checks against upstream docs, dated comparison notes when needed, and review that asks what claim a user can verify.

References