How to Use the Command 'soupault' (with Examples)

Soupault is a versatile tool designed for generating static websites through the process of HTML element tree rewriting. It offers flexibility, providing the ability to utilize it not only for website generation but also as an HTML post-processor or metadata extractor. This versatility is particularly valuable for web developers looking to have more control over their static site generation processes. Soupault operates primarily via command line, allowing for precise control of website projects and configurations.

Use Case 1: Initialize a Minimal Website Project

Code:

soupault --init

Motivation: Initializing a minimal website project using Soupault helps developers establish a base structure for a new static website. This command facilitates a quick start by setting up the necessary folders and files, taking away the tedium of manual configuration.

Explanation:

• --init: This argument instructs Soupault to initialize a basic website project in the current directory. It sets up a scaffold which typically includes folders for content, templates, and assets, along with a default configuration file.

Example Output: Upon running the command, users will typically see directories and files like content/, templates/, assets/, and a soupault.toml configuration file created within the working directory. This provides a convenient starting point for further development.

Use Case 2: Build a Website

Code:

soupault

Motivation: Building a website is a fundamental operation where all resources and configurations are compiled into a complete static site. This command is essential for translating the source files, templates, and content into a finalized website ready for deployment.

Explanation:

• Running soupault without additional arguments uses the current directory structure and configuration files to build the website. It reads content files, applies templates, and compiles everything into a static format.

Example Output: The result of this command is a fully generated static website placed in a build output directory, usually named build/. This directory contains the HTML files, stylesheets, and scripts that make up the site.

Use Case 3: Override Default Configuration and Directory Locations

Code:

soupault --config config_path --site-dir input_dir --build-dir output_dir

Motivation: There can be scenarios where the default configuration, input directory, or output directory do not align with a user’s specific project structure. This command allows customization by overriding these defaults, enabling a more tailored organization.

Explanation:

• --config config_path: Specifies a different configuration file other than the default soupault.toml.
• --site-dir input_dir: Defines a different directory for site input files, such as content and templates.
• --build-dir output_dir: Specifies a target directory where the generated static website should be output.

Example Output: If specified appropriately, the command will create and build the static site using the paths provided, allowing for a more controlled and personalized build process.

Use Case 4: Extract Metadata into a JSON File

Code:

soupault --index-only --dump-index-json path/to/file.json

Motivation: There are instances where users may need to extract metadata from their content files without generating a complete site build, such as for indexing purposes or data-driven features in other applications.

Explanation:

• --index-only: Processes content files to extract metadata only, without proceeding to full page generation.
• --dump-index-json path/to/file.json: Outputs the extracted metadata into a JSON file at the specified path, which can be useful for programmatic access or analysis.

Example Output: Running this command will not produce HTML output but will instead create a JSON file containing metadata extracted from the content files, providing structured data for further use in other contexts or tools.

Use Case 5: Show the Effective Configuration

Code:

soupault --show-effective-config

Motivation: Understanding the current configuration settings of a project is crucial for debugging and optimization. This command helps users verify the effective configuration being applied by combining specified and default settings.

Explanation:

• --show-effective-config: Displays the complete configuration used in the build process, merging settings from the project’s soupault.toml file with the tool’s default settings.

Example Output: Executing this command will output to the terminal a detailed view of the effective configuration, providing insight into which settings are being applied and allowing users to verify or adjust their setup as needed.

Conclusion:

Soupault offers a robust set of commands for handling various tasks involved in static website generation. From initializing projects, building sites, and overriding configurations, to extracting metadata and examining configurations, these examples illustrate just how versatile and powerful this tool can be for developers seeking effective web development workflows. These command use cases readily allow web developers to undertake a variety of tasks that enhance their project flexibility and control.