RFC Kinds

RFCs are categorized by their "kind" which determines their structure, validation rules, and lifecycle.

Available Kinds

Standards Track

Defines processes, conventions, or organizational standards

Architecture

Describes system architecture and design

Specification

Defines APIs, protocols, or interfaces

Best Current Practice

Documents recommended practices

Quick Reference

Kind	Code	Use When
Standards Track	`standards`	Defining organizational processes or conventions
Architecture	`architecture`	Designing system architecture
Specification	`specification`	Defining APIs or interfaces
Best Current Practice	`bcp`	Documenting recommended practices

Choosing the Right Kind

Is it about how we work as a team?
  └─ Yes → Standards Track
  └─ No ↓

Is it about system design or components?
  └─ Yes → Architecture
  └─ No ↓

Is it about APIs, protocols, or interfaces?
  └─ Yes → Specification
  └─ No ↓

Is it about recommended ways of doing things?
  └─ Yes → Best Current Practice

Each kind has its own structure requirements and validation rules. See the individual kind definitions for details.

RFC Kinds

RFC Kinds

Available Kinds

Standards Track

Architecture

Specification

Best Current Practice

Quick Reference

Choosing the Right Kind

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