Question 1

How do I use custom slot types with Alexa Utterances?

Accepted Answer

Use the special syntax {-|SlotName} in your template, such as 'snack is {-|Fruit}', to keep the slot name as a literal curly brace for direct integration into your Alexa interaction model, as explained in the README's custom slot section.

Question 2

Can Alexa Utterances generate number ranges in utterances?

Accepted Answer

Yes, it supports auto-generation of number ranges with optional steps—for example, 'buy {2-5|NUMBER} items' expands to utterances like 'buy {two|NUMBER} items', and you can specify increments like '5-20 by 5' for more control.

Question 3

Is there a way to reuse word lists across different Alexa skill intents?

Accepted Answer

Use the dictionary parameter to define reusable lists, such as { colors: ["red", "green"] }, and reference them in templates with {colors|SLOT}, making it easy to maintain consistent vocabulary without duplication across intents.

Question 4

Alexa Utterances or manual writing—which is better for my skill?

Accepted Answer

Alexa Utterances excels for skills with complex or numerous utterances by automating permutations and saving time, but for very simple skills with few variations, manual writing in the Alexa Developer Console might be quicker and less overhead.

Question 5

How to integrate Alexa Utterances into my Node.js Alexa skill project?

Accepted Answer

Install via npm install alexa-utterances, then use the API to generate utterances from templates, and copy the output array into your skill's interaction model JSON file or use it programmatically during build processes.

Question 6

Does Alexa Utterances support optional words in templates?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can specify optional parts with braces, like 'what is your {favorite |}color', which generates both 'what is your color' and 'what is your favorite color' to cover different speaking styles.

alexa-utterances

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