---
name: makepad-reference
description: "Guide to diagnosing Makepad build, widget, redraw and layout issues against the exact runtime revision."
risk: critical
source: community
date_added: "2026-09-04"
---

# Makepad Reference

This category provides reference materials for debugging, code quality, and advanced layout patterns.

## When to Use
- You need quick-reference material for common Makepad errors, debugging, or API lookups.
- The task is diagnostic or reference-oriented rather than writing a focused feature in one subsystem.
- You want a central starting point before diving into more specialized Makepad skills.

## Quick Navigation

| Topic | File | Use When |
|-------|------|----------|
| API Documentation | Official docs index, quick API reference | Finding detailed API info |
| Troubleshooting | Common errors and fixes | Build fails, runtime errors |
| Code Quality | Makepad-aware refactoring | Simplifying code safely |
| Adaptive Layout | Desktop/mobile responsive | Cross-platform layouts |

## Common Issues Quick Reference

| Error | Quick Fix |
|-------|-----------|
| `no matching field: font` | Use `text_style: <THEME_FONT_*>{}` |
| Color parse error | Check the installed live-design parser syntax; changing a valid hex color is not a general fix |
| `set_text` missing argument | Add `cx` as first argument |
| UI not updating | Call `redraw(cx)` after changes |
| Widget not found | Check ID spelling, use `ids!()` for paths |

## Debug Tips

```bash
# Run with line info for better error messages
MAKEPAD=lines cargo run  # Use the project-pinned toolchain; verify this diagnostic flag for its revision
```

```rust
// Add logging
log!("Value: {:?}", my_value);
log!("State: {} / {}", self.counter, self.is_loading);
```

## Resources

- [Makepad Official Docs](https://publish.obsidian.md/makepad-docs/) - Obsidian-based documentation
- [Makepad Repository](https://github.com/makepad/makepad)
- [Robrix](https://github.com/project-robius/robrix) - Production reference
- [Moly](https://github.com/moxin-org/moly) - Production reference

## Limitations
- Use this skill only when the task clearly matches the scope described above.
- Do not treat the output as a substitute for environment-specific validation, testing, or expert review.
- Stop and ask for clarification if required inputs, permissions, safety boundaries, or success criteria are missing.

The navigation table names topics, not bundled reference files. Verify exact Makepad API signatures and the project toolchain before changing code; preserve private values in logs, and test widget updates, input and target layouts rather than assuming a redraw call fixes every issue.