> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.serverlessapigateway.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.serverlessapigateway.com/glossary/b/blueprint.md). # Blueprint In API development, a predefined plan or layout for an API's structure and behavior. A blueprint in API development is a predefined plan or template that describes the structure, endpoints, data models, and expected behavior of an API before it is implemented. Blueprints serve as a contract between API producers and consumers, enabling teams to agree on the interface before writing code. API blueprints are commonly written using specification formats such as OpenAPI (formerly Swagger) or API Blueprint (a Markdown-based format). These documents define available endpoints, request and response schemas, authentication requirements, and error formats. They can be used to generate documentation, mock servers, client SDKs, and test suites automatically. In serverless and gateway-driven architectures, blueprints are particularly useful because they allow teams to configure routing, validation, and transformation rules declaratively. The gateway can enforce the API contract at the edge, rejecting malformed requests before they reach backend functions. This reduces wasted compute and improves API reliability. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the following URL with the `ask` and `goal` query parameters: ``` GET https://docs.serverlessapigateway.com/glossary/b/blueprint.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is what the user is ultimately trying to achieve, the reason they need the answer. Sharing it helps GitBook give you a better, more relevant answer. A goal is most helpful when it describes the outcome the user wants rather than restating the question. For example, with `ask=how do I create an API token`, a goal like `automate deployments from our CI pipeline` lets GitBook tailor the answer to that use case. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.