How to Use a Documentation Generator in CMake
Implementing a documentation generator in CMake is crucial for developers seeking to improve code maintainability and readability. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, from initial setup to advanced configurations.
What is a Documentation Generator?
A documentation generator automates the creation of documentation from annotated code. It interprets comments and metadata in your source files to create structured documentation files. This process is invaluable in software development, especially for APIs, as it allows for easier updates and collaborations.
Prerequisites
Before you begin, ensure you have the following:
- Installed CMake
- Installed your chosen documentation generator
Setting Up Your CMakeLists.txt
1. Open your CMakeLists.txt file.
2. Add the following commands to configure your project to find and include a documentation generator:
find_package(Doxygen REQUIRED)
if(DOXYGEN_FOUND)
set(DOXYGEN_GENERATE_HTML YES)
set(DOXYGEN_OUTPUT_DIRECTORY ${CMAKE_BINARY_DIR}/doc)
set(DOXYGEN_SOURCE_DIR ${CMAKE_SOURCE_DIR})
set(DOXYGEN_BRIEF_MEMBER_DESC YES)
set(DOXYGEN_FULL_PATH_NAMES YES)
set(DOXYGEN_EXTRACT_ALL YES)
# Include more configuration options as desired
endif()Documentation Generation Commands
To trigger the documentation generation, add a custom command:
add_custom_target(doc ALL DEPENDS ${DOXYGEN_OUTPUT_DIRECTORY}/index.html)This setup will automatically generate your documentation upon building your project.
Running CMake and Generating Documentation
- Run CMake to configure your project:
cmake . - Build your project:
make - Check the doc folder for the generated files.
Advanced Settings
You can customize various settings, such as output formats, by editing the appropriate variables in CMakeLists.txt. Explore the documentation of your specific generator for detailed options.
Glossary of Terms
- CMake: A build system generator that helps manage project builds easily.
- Documentation Generator: A tool that creates documentation from annotated source code.
Pro Tips
- Regularly update comments in your source files to ensure your documentation reflects the latest code changes.
- Consider integrating the documentation build into your CI/CD pipeline for automated documentation updates.
