Write docstrings for PyTorch functions and methods following PyTorch conventions. Use when writing or updating docstrings in PyTorch code.
View on GitHubJanuary 25, 2026
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.claude/skills/docstring/# PyTorch Docstring Writing Guide
This skill describes how to write docstrings for functions and methods in the PyTorch project, following the conventions in `torch/_tensor_docs.py` and `torch/nn/functional.py`.
## General Principles
- Use **raw strings** (`r"""..."""`) for all docstrings to avoid issues with LaTeX/math backslashes
- Follow **Sphinx/reStructuredText** (reST) format for documentation
- Be **concise but complete** - include all essential information
- Always include **examples** when possible
- Use **cross-references** to related functions/classes
## Docstring Structure
### 1. Function Signature (First Line)
Start with the function signature showing all parameters:
```python
r"""function_name(param1, param2, *, kwarg1=default1, kwarg2=default2) -> ReturnType
```
**Notes:**
- Include the function name
- Show positional and keyword-only arguments (use `*` separator)
- Include default values
- Show return type annotation
- This line should NOT end with a period
### 2. Brief Description
Provide a one-line description of what the function does:
```python
r"""conv2d(input, weight, bias=None, stride=1, padding=0, dilation=1, groups=1) -> Tensor
Applies a 2D convolution over an input image composed of several input
planes.
```
### 3. Mathematical Formulas (if applicable)
Use Sphinx math directives for mathematical expressions:
```python
.. math::
\text{Softmax}(x_{i}) = \frac{\exp(x_i)}{\sum_j \exp(x_j)}
```
Or inline math: `:math:\`x^2\``
### 4. Cross-References
Link to related classes and functions using Sphinx roles:
- `:class:\`~torch.nn.ModuleName\`` - Link to a class
- `:func:\`torch.function_name\`` - Link to a function
- `:meth:\`~Tensor.method_name\`` - Link to a method
- `:attr:\`attribute_name\`` - Reference an attribute
- The `~` prefix shows only the last component (e.g., `Conv2d` instead of `torch.nn.Conv2d`)
**Example:**
```python
See :class:`~torch.nn.Conv2d` for details and output shape.
```
### 5. Notes and Warnings