Question 1

How do I install est as a Less plugin?

Accepted Answer

Install via npm with 'npm install -g less-plugin-est', then compile with 'lessc styles.less --est' and add '--js' for Less 3.0.0+. The quick start section provides step-by-step instructions.

Question 2

What's the main difference between est and Bootstrap?

Accepted Answer

Est is a mixin library for Less that generates CSS on-demand without pre-styled classes, focusing on semantic HTML and custom styling. Bootstrap offers ready-to-use CSS components and JavaScript, making it faster for UI development but less flexible for tailored designs.

Question 3

Can I use est with Sass instead of Less?

Accepted Answer

No, est is built specifically for Less and relies on its mixin features. For similar functionality in Sass, consider libraries like Bourbon or Compass, but migration would require rewriting mixins.

Question 4

How can I customize global variables like font size in est?

Accepted Answer

Override variables such as @default-font-size in your Less file before using mixins, as shown in the quick start example with @import. This allows easy theming without modifying the library source.

Question 5

Is est suitable for responsive web design?

Accepted Answer

Yes, est includes mixins for effects and layout that can build responsive designs, but it doesn't provide pre-built responsive utilities; you'll need to author media queries and styles using the mixins, as seen in the demos.

Question 6

What are good alternatives to est for Less mixins?

Accepted Answer

Alternatives include LESSHat or custom mixin sets, but est stands out for its on-demand generation and semantic focus. Choose based on your need for utility coverage, documentation language, and integration ease.

Question 7

How to handle duplicate CSS rules with est's plugin?

Accepted Answer

Use the uniqueDirectives option set to true by default to eliminate duplicate named at-rules like @keyframes. Disable it via '--est="uniqueDirectives=false"' if duplicates are needed, per the plugin features section.

Est

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