---

name: create-dto description: Generates a Data Transfer Object (DTO) class. Use when defining structured data for Contracts, API responses, or complex Action inputs. allowed-tools: Write, Read

Create DTO

This skill generates a Data Transfer Object (DTO) to ensure type safety for data moving between Modules or Layers.

Instructions

1. Identify Parameters:

   • Module: (e.g., Identity, Academic) or Shared if used across modules.
   • Purpose: What data does it hold? (e.g., StudentRegistrationData, CourseSummary).
   • Path: app/Modules/{Module}/DTO/{ClassName}.php or app/Shared/DTO/{ClassName}.php.

2. Generate Code:

   • Namespace: App\Modules\{Module}\DTO or App\Shared\DTO.
   • Use readonly class (PHP 8.2+).
   • Public typed properties.
   • Optional: fromRequest or fromArray static factories.

Template

Copy<?php

namespace App\Shared\DTO;

use Illuminate\Http\Request;

readonly class StudentGpaDTO
{
    public function __construct(
        public int $studentId,
        public string $studentName,
        public float $gpa,
        public int $totalCredits,
        public ?string $rank = null,
    ) {}

    public static function fromArray(array $data): self
    {
        return new self(
            studentId: $data['student_id'],
            studentName: $data['student_name'],
            gpa: (float) $data['gpa'],
            totalCredits: (int) $data['total_credits'],
            rank: $data['rank'] ?? null,
        );
    }
}

Best Practices

• Immutability: Always use readonly classes.
• Strict Typing: All properties must have types.
• Shared vs Module: If it's the return type of a Shared Contract, put it in app/Shared/DTO. If it's internal to a module (e.g. Action input), put it in app/Modules/{Module}/DTO.