readmetxt

readmetxt is a simple text file commonly found in software projects, particularly those distributed on platforms like GitHub, GitLab, or as standalone archives. Its primary purpose is to provide essential information about the project to users, developers, and anyone who might encounter it. The name "README" itself signifies that this is the first file to read when exploring a new project.

Typically, a readmetxt file contains details such as a project's description, its intended purpose, and how to get started with it. This often includes instructions on installation, configuration, and basic usage. For software projects, it may also outline dependencies, licensing information, and contribution guidelines. Developers might find information about the project's architecture, build process, or testing procedures within the README.

The format of readmetxt is usually plain text, making it universally accessible and readable by any text editor. However, many projects use markup languages like Markdown (often with a .md extension, but still serving the README function) to format their README files, allowing for richer content like headings, lists, links, and code blocks. This enhances readability and organization. The presence of a readmetxt file is considered a good practice in software development, fostering transparency and facilitating easier adoption and collaboration.