How to use the command 'idnits' (with examples)

The ‘idnits’ command is used to check internet-drafts for submission nits. It helps to identify violations of Section 2.1 and 2.2 of the requirements listed on the IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force) checklist. It is a useful tool for authors and contributors to ensure that their internet-draft submissions meet the necessary guidelines.

Use case 1: Check a file for nits

Code:

idnits path/to/file.txt

Motivation: By using this command, you can quickly check a specific file for any nits and ensure that it complies with the IETF requirements. This is especially useful before submitting the file as an internet-draft to avoid potential rejection or delays in the review process.

Explanation: The command is followed by the path to the file that needs to be checked for nits. It analyzes the file and provides a report on any violations of the IETF requirements.

Example output:

Checking file.txt...
No nits found.

Use case 2: Count nits without displaying them

Code:

idnits --nitcount path/to/file.txt

Motivation: In some cases, you may only want to know the number of nits in a file without displaying the specific details. This can be useful for quickly assessing the overall quality and compliance of the document.

Explanation: The “–nitcount” flag is used to count the number of nits without displaying them. It provides a summary of the total number of nits found in the specified file.

Example output:

3 nits found in file.txt.

Use case 3: Show extra information about offending lines

Code:

idnits --verbose path/to/file.txt

Motivation: Sometimes, it is helpful to see additional information about the offending lines in a document to understand the specific issues that need to be addressed. The “–verbose” option provides a more detailed report.

Explanation: The “–verbose” flag is used to enable verbose mode, which displays extra information about the offending lines in the file. This can include line numbers, descriptions of the violations, and suggestions for corrections.

Example output:

Checking file.txt...
Line 50: Missing required section: "Abstract"
Line 100: Excessively long line (80 characters maximum)
Line 200: Invalid character found: "&"

Use case 4: Expect the specified year in the boilerplate instead of the current year

Code:

idnits --year 2021 path/to/file.txt

Motivation: The boilerplate section of an internet-draft typically includes the current year. However, in some cases, you may need to specify a different year, such as when dealing with older drafts. This option allows you to override the default behavior.

Explanation: The “–year” flag is used to specify a different year for the boilerplate section. By providing the desired year, you can ensure that the document reflects the correct time frame.

Example output:

Checking file.txt...
Boilerplate year mismatch: Expected year 2021, found year 2020.

Use case 5: Assume the document is of the specified status

Code:

idnits --doctype standard|informational|experimental|bcp|ps|ds path/to/file.txt

Motivation: Different types of internet-drafts have specific requirements and guidelines. By assuming the correct document status, you can ensure that the appropriate criteria are applied during the nit check.

Explanation: The “–doctype” flag is used to specify the assumed document status. The options include standard, informational, experimental, bcp (Best Current Practice), ps (Proposed Standard), and ds (Draft Standard). This ensures that the nit check considers the specific requirements of the chosen document type.

Example output:

Checking file.txt...
No nits found for document of type "experimental".

Conclusion:

The ‘idnits’ command is a valuable tool for authors and contributors submitting internet-drafts. By using the various options provided, you can easily check for nits, count them, view detailed reports, specify different years in the boilerplate, and assume the appropriate document status. These capabilities help ensure compliance with the IETF requirements, improving the quality and acceptance chances of internet-draft submissions.