Question 1

How do I install an R package from GitHub with devtools?

Accepted Answer

Use install_github('username/repo') after loading devtools. For better performance, the README recommends using pak::pak() for installation, but devtools provides a straightforward wrapper function.

Question 2

What's the difference between devtools and usethis?

Accepted Answer

devtools focuses on the overall package development workflow like loading and testing, while usethis automates setup tasks like creating files and directories. They are complementary, with devtools often pulling in usethis as a dependency.

Question 3

How to run tests on my R package using devtools?

Accepted Answer

Call test() after loading your package with load_all(). It automatically runs all testthat tests and provides output, with optional coverage analysis via test_coverage() integrated with covr.

Question 4

Is devtools required for R package development?

Accepted Answer

No, you can use base R tools, but devtools simplifies the process by automating tasks. It's the de facto standard for modern workflows, especially with its integration of best practices from resources like 'R Packages.'

Question 5

How to update all installed packages with devtools?

Accepted Answer

Use update_packages() to update packages to their latest versions, whether installed from CRAN or other sources via install_* functions. It handles dependencies and ensures compatibility during development.

Question 6

Devtools or base R for building packages?

Accepted Answer

Devtools offers a more user-friendly interface with functions like build() and check(), but base R commands like R CMD build are available for minimalists. Devtools is preferred for its integrated checks and submission helpers.

devtools <img class="emoji" alt="heart" src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/qinwf/awesome-R@3c66da6e291bcc0520b1649125b0bed750896a9a/heart.png" height="20" align="absmiddle" width="20">

What is devtools <img class="emoji" alt="heart" src="https://cdn.jsdelivr.net/gh/qinwf/awesome-R@3c66da6e291bcc0520b1649125b0bed750896a9a/heart.png" height="20" align="absmiddle" width="20">?

Overview

Use Cases

Best For

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Pros & Cons

Pros

Cons

Frequently Asked Questions