Stdlib Scripting

Positioning

This skill is a LAST RESORT. Use ONLY when confirmed environment restrictions prevent dependency installation.

flowchart TD
    Start([Need Python CLI script]) --> Q1{Environment allows network access<br>for dependency installation?}
    Q1 -->|Yes — standard environment| UseTyper[Use python-cli-architect with Typer+Rich<br>Less code, better UX, well-tested libraries]
    Q1 -->|No — restricted environment| Q2{Restriction type confirmed?}
    Q2 -->|No — assumption only| Stop[STOP — Verify with user first<br>Do not assume restrictions]
    Q2 -->|Yes — airgapped/no internet/no uv| StdLib[Use stdlib-scripting<br>Maximum portability, basic UX]

    UseTyper --> Why1[Why: PEP 723 + uv handles dependencies<br>Simpler code, richer features]
    StdLib --> Why2[Why: Runs anywhere Python 3.11+ installed<br>More code to write and maintain]

See ../python3-development/SKILL.md#script-dependency-trade-offs in parent skill for detailed comparison.