Getting started with API documentation tools in modern development workflows

Hi everyone 👋

I’m currently exploring different tools and approaches for API documentation and testing, especially in modern development workflows involving microservices and external integrations.

As a beginner/intermediate developer, I’ve noticed that API documentation is often:

outdated quickly

disconnected from actual testing

hard to maintain across teams

So I’ve been trying to understand what real-world teams use to solve this problem.

Some common approaches I’ve seen so far:

OpenAPI / Swagger-based documentation

Separate tools for testing and documentation

Integrated platforms that try to combine both workflows

One tool I came across during my research is Apidog, which combines API design, testing, and documentation in a single workflow. It looks interesting for keeping everything in sync, especially for small teams.

I’m still learning though, so I’d love to hear from more experienced developers:

👉 What do you use for API documentation in your projects?

👉 How do you make sure your docs stay updated as your API evolves?

👉 Any tools or workflows you would recommend for someone starting out?

Thanks in advance for sharing your experience