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VectorLint is configured through four files. Running vectorlint init creates the first two automatically.
FileLocationPurposeRequired
VECTORLINT.mdProject rootGlobal style instructions in plain language, applied to every reviewRequired for zero-config mode
.vectorlint.iniProject rootFile patterns and rule packsRequired for rule packs and file-specific configuration
config.toml~/.vectorlint/LLM provider API keys (applies globally across projects)Always required
Rule pack filesRulesPath directoryTargeted rules for specific standards, for advanced content quality workflowsOptional
For more information about integrating your style guide into the VECTORLINT.md file, see Your first review. For more information about rule pack files, see Defining your style rules.

Initialize your project

VectorLint provides two initialization modes depending on how much configuration you need.

Zero-config mode (fastest)

If you want to review content against a style guide with no additional setup:
vectorlint init --quick
This creates a VECTORLINT.md file in your project root where you paste your style guide. VectorLint automatically creates a “Style Guide Compliance” rule from it and reviews your content against it. Run a review:
vectorlint doc.md

Full configuration

For a comprehensive setup with custom rule packs and file-specific targets:
vectorlint init
This creates both .vectorlint.ini and ~/.vectorlint/config.toml. Edit them manually or follow the guides below.

Configuration guides

Each file has its own reference page with complete field definitions, examples, and behavior details.

Run a review

Once your provider is configured, run a review against any Markdown file:
vectorlint doc.md
VectorLint ships with a built-in preset containing eight check rules (AI Pattern, Capitalization, Consistency, Inclusivity, Passive Voice, Repetition, Unsupported Claims, Wordiness). The init command configures this automatically so you get useful output immediately.

Next steps

LLM Providers

Configure the model and API keys that power your reviews.

Project Configuration

Choose which rules apply to which files and configure review behavior.

Defining your style rules

Create VECTORLINT.md and write custom rule pack files.

CLI reference

Full reference for commands, flags, and exit codes.

Environment variables

Complete reference for all runtime configuration variables.