BMAD-METHOD/expansion-packs/bmad-technical-writing/tasks/create-preface.md

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# Create Preface

---

task:
id: create-preface
name: Create Preface
description: Write compelling book preface that sets expectations and connects with readers
persona_default: book-analyst
inputs:

- book-outline
- target-audience
- learning-objectives
  steps:
- Review preface template
- Define target audience clearly
- Explain what readers will learn (high-level outcomes)
- State prerequisites assumed
- Describe book organization (parts, structure)
- List code repository and resources
- Explain conventions used (code formatting, callouts)
- Write acknowledgments
- Add personal note if desired
- Keep concise (2-4 pages max)
- Use template preface-tmpl.yaml with create-doc.md
  output: front-matter/preface.md

---

## Purpose

Create a preface that helps readers understand who the book is for, what they'll learn, and how to use it effectively.

## Workflow Steps

### 1. Define Target Audience

Be specific:

```markdown
## Who This Book Is For

This book is designed for:

✅ **Software developers** with 1-2 years of experience who want to master API development
✅ **Backend engineers** transitioning to API-first architectures
✅ **Full-stack developers** looking to strengthen their API design skills

You'll get the most from this book if you have:
- Working knowledge of Python or JavaScript
- Basic understanding of HTTP and web concepts
- Familiarity with command line tools

This book may not be for you if:
❌ You're brand new to programming (start with Python/JavaScript fundamentals)
❌ You're looking for advanced distributed systems architecture (this focuses on API basics and intermediate patterns)
```

### 2. Explain Learning Outcomes

High-level goals:

```markdown
## What You'll Learn

By the end of this book, you'll be able to:

1. **Design RESTful APIs** that follow industry best practices
2. **Implement authentication** using JWT and OAuth 2.0
3. **Build GraphQL schemas** and resolvers
4. **Handle errors gracefully** with consistent error responses
5. **Optimize API performance** with caching and rate limiting
6. **Deploy APIs to production** on AWS, Heroku, or Docker
7. **Document APIs** using OpenAPI/Swagger

You'll build real-world projects including:
- Task management API (REST)
- E-commerce backend (GraphQL)
- Real-time chat API (WebSockets)
```

### 3. State Prerequisites

Be honest about assumptions:

```markdown
## Prerequisites

**Required:**
- Python 3.10+ or Node.js 18+ installed
- Basic HTTP knowledge (GET, POST, status codes)
- Comfortable with command line
- Text editor or IDE

**Helpful but not required:**
- SQL database experience
- Git version control
- Basic Docker knowledge
```

### 4. Describe Book Organization

Help readers navigate:

```markdown
## How This Book Is Organized

This book is organized into three parts:

**Part 1: Foundations (Chapters 1-4)**
Covers REST fundamentals, HTTP, and basic API design. Read these chapters in order.

**Part 2: Intermediate Patterns (Chapters 5-8)**
Authentication, error handling, testing, and documentation. Mostly independent chapters.

**Part 3: Production Readiness (Chapters 9-12)**
Performance, security, deployment, and monitoring. Builds on earlier chapters.

**Appendices:**
- A: API design checklist
- B: HTTP status codes reference
- C: Exercise solutions

### Reading Paths

**Linear (Recommended for Beginners):**
Read chapters 1-12 in order.

**Fast Track (Experienced Developers):**
Chapters 1, 3, 5, 7, 9-12 (skip basics).

**Reference Use:**
Jump to specific topics as needed; each chapter is as self-contained as possible.
```

### 5. List Resources

Make code accessible:

```markdown
## Code and Resources

### Code Repository
All code examples: https://github.com/author/book-code

### Book Website
https://masteringwebapis.com
- Errata and updates
- Additional resources
- Community forum

### Author Contact
- Twitter: @authorhandle
- Email: author@example.com
- Newsletter: [signup link]
```

### 6. Explain Conventions

Set expectations:

```markdown
## Conventions Used in This Book

### Code Examples

```python
# Code examples look like this
def hello_world():
    return "Hello, World!"
```

### Callouts

💡 **Tip**: Helpful suggestions and best practices

⚠️ **Warning**: Common pitfalls to avoid

📝 **Note**: Additional context or clarification

### Chapter Structure

Each chapter includes:
- Learning objectives
- Code examples with explanations
- Exercises (solutions in Appendix C)
- Summary and key takeaways
```

### 7. Write Acknowledgments

Thank contributors:

```markdown
## Acknowledgments

This book wouldn't exist without:

- **Technical reviewers**: [Names] who caught errors and improved clarity
- **Manning staff**: [Editor names] for guidance and support
- **Beta readers**: The MEAP community for invaluable feedback
- **My family**: [Personal thanks]
- **Open source community**: For the amazing tools and libraries

Special thanks to [specific acknowledgments].
```

### 8. Add Personal Note

Connect with readers:

```markdown
## A Note from the Author

I started learning about APIs five years ago, frustrated by incomplete documentation
and scattered resources. This book is what I wish I had back then: a comprehensive,
practical guide with working examples.

My goal is not just to teach you API syntax, but to help you think like an API designer.
Every example is tested, every pattern is battle-proven, and every chapter builds toward
real-world competence.

I hope this book accelerates your journey and helps you build APIs that developers love to use.

Happy coding!

[Author Name]
```

### 9. Keep Concise

Target length: 2-4 pages (1000-2000 words)

## Success Criteria

- [ ] Target audience clearly defined
- [ ] Learning outcomes specific and achievable
- [ ] Prerequisites stated honestly
- [ ] Book organization explained
- [ ] Code repository and resources listed
- [ ] Conventions documented
- [ ] Acknowledgments included
- [ ] Length: 2-4 pages
- [ ] Personal and engaging tone

## Next Steps

1. Include preface in front matter
2. Update as book evolves
3. Get feedback from beta readers