diff --git a/README.md b/README.md
index 52b1c39..529a5bf 100644
--- a/README.md
+++ b/README.md
@@ -1,92 +1,29 @@
 # Lana - V C++ Build System
 
-A simple, fast C++ build tool  designed for modern C++ projects.
+A simple, fast C++ build tool designed for modern C++ projects. Lana compiles itself with V and targets portable C++ workflows without relying on heavyweight generators.
 
-## Features
+## Documentation
 
-- **Automatic dependency tracking** for efficient rebuilds
-- **Simple configuration** with `config.ini` files
-- **Cross-platform** support
-- **Clean, minimal interface**
-
-## Installation
-
-1. Install V: https://vlang.io/
-2. Build Lana:
-   ```bash
-   v . -o lana
-   ```
-3. Add to PATH or use from current directory
+- 📚 **Canonical guide:** [`docs/guide.md`](docs/guide.md) now hosts the full documentation (installation, configuration, directives, troubleshooting).
+- 🧩 **Reusable snippets:** Shared markdown/JSON data lives under [`docs/snippets`](docs/snippets) and [`docs/commands.json`](docs/commands.json). The CLI help output and initializer templates consume these files directly.
 
 ## Quick Start
 
-### Initialize a new project
-```bash
-lana init myproject
-cd myproject
-```
-
-### Build the project
-```bash
-lana build
-```
-
-### Run the project
-```bash
-lana run
-```
-
-### Clean build files
-```bash
-lana clean
-```
+See [`docs/snippets/quickstart.md`](docs/snippets/quickstart.md) for the exact commands surfaced by `lana init`, the README template, and `lana --help`.
 
 ## Project Structure
 
-```
-myproject/
-├── src/          # Source files (.cpp, .cc, .cxx)
-├── include/      # Header files (.h, .hpp)
-├── build/        # Object files and intermediates
-├── bin/          # Executable output
-├── config.ini    # Build configuration
-├── README.md     # Project documentation
-└── .gitignore    # Git ignore file
-```
+[`docs/snippets/project_structure.md`](docs/snippets/project_structure.md) is the single source for structure diagrams used across the README, guide, and generated projects.
 
-## Commands
+## Commands & Options
 
-- `lana build` - Compile the project
-- `lana run` - Build and execute
-- `lana clean` - Remove build files
-- `lana init <name>` - Create new project
-
-## Configuration
-
-Edit `config.ini` to customize your build:
-
-```ini
-# Project settings
-project_name = myproject
-src_dir = src
-build_dir = build
-bin_dir = bin
-debug = true
-optimize = false
-verbose = false
-include_dirs = include
-libraries = 
-cflags = 
-ldflags = 
-```
-
-## License
-
-MIT License - see LICENSE file for details.
+The CLI help text is generated from [`docs/commands.json`](docs/commands.json). Update that file to add or modify commands/options once, and every consumer (help output, initializer docs, website) stays in sync.
 
 ## Contributing
 
-1. Fork the repository
-2. Create a feature branch
-3. Make your changes
-4. Submit a pull request
+- Fork the repository, create a feature branch, hack away, and open a PR.
+- Please keep user-facing documentation changes inside `docs/` whenever possible—other surfaces will pull from there automatically.
+
+## License
+
+MIT License - see [LICENSE](LICENSE) for details.
diff --git a/deps/deps.v b/deps/deps.v
index 7a39065..8f4d30a 100644
--- a/deps/deps.v
+++ b/deps/deps.v
@@ -2,7 +2,6 @@ module deps
 
 import os
 import config
-import os.cmdline
 
 pub fn extract_dependencies(source_file string) ![]string {
     mut dependencies := []string{}
diff --git a/DOCS.md b/docs/guide.md
similarity index 81%
rename from DOCS.md
rename to docs/guide.md
index e1ea389..cbdff27 100644
--- a/DOCS.md
+++ b/docs/guide.md
@@ -1,5 +1,7 @@
 # Lana Documentation
 
+> This is the canonical source of project documentation. `README.md`, the CLI help text, and the project initializer templates all reference the content in this directory.
+
 ## Table of Contents
 
 1. [Overview](#overview)
@@ -57,7 +59,7 @@ Lana parses `// build-directive:` comments in your C++ files to handle project-s
    chmod +x lana
    ```
 
-4. Add to PATH (optional):
+4. (Optional) Add to PATH:
    ```bash
    sudo mv lana /usr/local/bin/
    ```
@@ -82,7 +84,7 @@ project/
 │   ├── tools/        # Tool executables
 ├── config.ini        # Global build configuration
 ├── README.md         # Project docs (auto-generated with directive examples)
-└── .gitignore        # Ignores build artifacts
+└── .gitignore        # Git ignore file
 ```
 
 - **Build Directives**: Add `// build-directive:` comments at the top of C++ files for per-file settings (see [Build Directives](#build-directives)).
@@ -111,8 +113,6 @@ lana build [options]
 ```
 Compiles sources, processes directives, builds dependency graph, and links outputs. Incremental: only rebuilds changed files.
 
-**Options:** See [Command Line Options](#command-line-options).
-
 **Example:**
 ```bash
 lana build -d -v  # Debug build with verbose output (shows directive parsing)
@@ -124,22 +124,12 @@ lana run [options]
 ```
 Builds (if needed) and runs the main executable (first tool or `project_name` from config/directives).
 
-**Example:**
-```bash
-lana run -O  # Optimized run
-```
-
 ### Clean Project
 ```bash
 lana clean
 ```
 Removes `build/`, `bin/`, and intermediates.
 
-**Example:**
-```bash
-lana clean
-```
-
 ### Help
 ```bash
 lana --help
@@ -160,21 +150,10 @@ Fetches and extracts external dependencies declared in `config.ini` under `[depe
 - `build_cmds` - optional semicolon-separated shell commands to build/install the dependency
 
 Notes:
-- Only `name` is required. If `url` is omitted Lana will skip any download/clone and extraction steps — this is useful for dependencies that are generated locally or that only require running project-local commands.
-- If `url` points to a git repository (ends with `.git`), `lana setup` will perform a shallow clone into `dependencies/<extract_to>`.
-- For archive URLs `lana setup` will try `curl` then `wget` to download, will verify checksum if provided, and will extract common archive types (`.tar.gz`, `.tar.xz`, `.zip`).
-- When `build_cmds` are present they are executed either inside `dependencies/<extract_to>` (if `extract_to` is set or a clone/extract was performed) or in the project root (if no extract directory is available).
-- The current implementation performs a best-effort download/extract and prints warnings/errors; it is intentionally simple and can be extended or replaced by a more robust script if needed.
-
-Example (only `name` + `build_cmds`):
-
-```ini
-[dependencies]
-name = generate_headers
-build_cmds = tools/gen_headers.sh; cp -r generated/include ../../include/
-```
-
-In this example `lana setup` will not try to download anything — it will run the `build_cmds` from the project root, allowing you to run arbitrary local build or generation steps.
+- Only `name` is required. If `url` is omitted Lana will skip any download/clone and extraction steps — useful for dependencies generated locally or that only require running project-local commands.
+- If `url` points to a git repository (ends with `.git`), `lana setup` performs a shallow clone into `dependencies/<extract_to>`.
+- For archive URLs `lana setup` tries `curl` then `wget` to download, verifies checksum if provided, and extracts common archive types (`.tar.gz`, `.tar.xz`, `.zip`).
+- When `build_cmds` are present they run either inside `dependencies/<extract_to>` (if available) or in the project root.
 
 ## Configuration
 
@@ -190,7 +169,7 @@ src_dir = src
 build_dir = build
 bin_dir = bin
 
-# Build modes (mutually exclusive; CLI overrides)
+# Build modes (CLI overrides)
 debug = true
 optimize = false
 
@@ -235,12 +214,12 @@ Lana's killer feature: Embed build instructions **directly in C++ source files**
 
 ### Supported Directives
 - **`unit-name(<name>)`**: Unique unit ID (e.g., `"lib/cli"`, `"tools/mytool"`). Required for custom builds. Defaults to file path if omitted.
-- **`depends-units(<unit1>,<unit2>,...)`**: Dependencies (other units, e.g., `"lib/utils,lib/file"`). Builds them first.
-- **`link(<lib1>,<lib2>,...)`**: Libraries to link (e.g., `"utils.so,pthread,boost_system"`). Internal (Lana-built) or external.
+- **`depends-units(<unit1>,<unit2>,...)`**: Dependencies (other units). Builds them first.
+- **`link(<lib1>,<lib2>,...)`**: Libraries to link (internal or external).
 - **`out(<path>)`**: Output relative to `bin/` (e.g., `"tools/mytool"`, `"lib/mylib"`). Defaults to unit name.
-- **`cflags(<flag1> <flag2> ...)`**: Per-file compiler flags (e.g., `"-std=c++20 -fPIC"`). Appends to global `cflags`.
-- **`ldflags(<flag1> <flag2> ...)`**: Per-file linker flags (e.g., `"-static -pthread"`). Appends to global `ldflags`.
-- **`shared(<true|false>)`**: Build as shared lib (`.so`/`.dll`, true) or executable (false, default).
+- **`cflags(<flag1> <flag2> ...)`**: Per-file compiler flags. Appends to global `cflags`.
+- **`ldflags(<flag1> <flag2> ...)`**: Per-file linker flags.
+- **`shared(<true|false>)`**: Build as shared lib (`.so`/`.dll`, true) or executable (false).
 
 ### Examples
 
@@ -258,7 +237,6 @@ int main() {
     return 0;
 }
 ```
-- Builds `bin/tools/main` executable. No deps.
 
 **Shared Library (`src/lib/cli.cpp`)**:
 ```cpp
@@ -276,7 +254,6 @@ namespace lana {
     void print_help() { std::cout << "CLI help" << std::endl; }
 }
 ```
-- Builds `bin/lib/cli.so`. PIC for shared lib.
 
 **Tool Depending on Shared Lib (`src/tools/mytool.cpp`)**:
 ```cpp
@@ -296,14 +273,6 @@ int main() {
     return 0;
 }
 ```
-- Depends on/builds `lib/cli` first; links `cli.so`; outputs `bin/tools/mytool`.
-
-### Tips
-- **Order**: Directives before `#include` or code.
-- **Empty Values**: Use `()` for none (e.g., `depends-units()`).
-- **Global Interaction**: Directives add to `config.ini` settings (e.g., global `-Wall` + per-file `-std=c++20`).
-- **Assets**: Use `[dependencies]` hooks for non-C++ steps (e.g., shader compilation).
-- **Legacy**: Use `[shared_libs]`/`[tools]` in config for manual lists (overrides auto-parsing).
 
 ## Build Process
 
@@ -387,12 +356,12 @@ libraries = pthread,boost_system
 cflags = -Wall -Wextra -std=c++17
 ldflags = -static
 
-[shared_libs]  # Legacy/manual (directives preferred)
+[shared_libs]
 name = cli
 sources = src/lib/cli.cpp
 libraries = 
 
-[tools]  # Legacy/manual
+[tools]
 name = main
 sources = src/main.cpp
 libraries = cli
@@ -400,13 +369,11 @@ libraries = cli
 
 ## Troubleshooting
 
-### Common Issues
-
 - **"No source files found"**: Check `src_dir` in config; ensure `.cpp` files exist.
 - **"Failed to parse directive"**: Verify syntax (e.g., `unit-name(lib/cli)`); use `-v` for details.
 - **"Dependency not found"**: Add missing `depends-units()` or build order in directives.
 - **Linking errors**: Check `link()` for libs; install dev packages (e.g., `sudo apt install libpthread-dev`).
-- **Asset build fails**: Verify commands in `[dependencies]` hook scripts (e.g., shader toolchain).
+- **Asset build fails**: Verify commands in `[dependencies]` hook scripts.
 - **Permission denied**: `chmod +x bin/tools/mytool`.
 
 ### Debugging Tips
@@ -422,10 +389,4 @@ See the source code structure in the repo. To extend:
 - Add directives: Update `config.BuildDirective` and `builder.build_from_directives()`.
 - New features: Modify `config.v` for parsing, `builder.v` for logic.
 
-For contributing, see [GitHub](https://github.com/yourusername/lana) (fork, branch, PR).
-
----
-*Documentation for Lana v1.0.0*  
-*Last updated: 2025-09-17*  
-*Issues: [Issues](https://lostcave.ddnss.de/git/jocadbz/lana)*  
-*Contribute: [Repo](https://lostcave.ddnss.de/git/jocadbz/lana)*
+For contributing, see Gitea (fork, branch, PR).
diff --git a/docs/help.txt b/docs/help.txt
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..425cd3c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/help.txt
@@ -0,0 +1,30 @@
+lana - Vlang C++ Build System
+Usage: lana [command] [options]
+
+Commands:
+  build        Compile all shared libraries and tools according to build directives.
+  run          Build (if needed) and run the main tool (project_name or first tool).
+  clean        Remove build artifacts under build/ and bin/.
+  init <name>  Scaffold a new Lana-ready C++ project.
+  setup        Fetch/build external dependencies declared in config.ini.
+  help         Display this help text.
+
+Global Options:
+  -d, --debug           Enable debug mode (-g -O0).
+  -O, --optimize        Enable optimization (-O3, disables debug).
+  -v, --verbose         Verbose logging (graph + compiler commands).
+  -p, --parallel        Force parallel compilation worker pool.
+  -o, --output <name>   Override project/output name.
+  -I <dir>              Add include directory (repeatable).
+  -L <dir>              Add library search path (repeatable).
+  -l <lib>              Add global link library (repeatable).
+  -c, --compiler <bin>  Set compiler binary explicitly.
+  --toolchain <name>    Choose toolchain adapter (gcc/clang).
+  --config <file>       Use alternate config file.
+  --shared-lib <name> <source>  Add legacy shared lib entry (no directives).
+  --tool <name> <source>        Add legacy tool entry (no directives).
+
+Docs:
+  Canonical Guide     docs/guide.md
+  Project Structure   docs/snippets/project_structure.md
+  Quick Start         docs/snippets/quickstart.md
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/docs/snippets/project_structure.md b/docs/snippets/project_structure.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..9dec28a
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/snippets/project_structure.md
@@ -0,0 +1,12 @@
+## Project Structure
+- `src/` — Source files (.cpp, .cc, .cxx)
+  - `lib/` — Shared library sources (mark with `shared(true)` when needed)
+  - `tools/` — Tool/executable sources
+- `include/` — Public headers
+- `build/` — Intermediate object files and dependency dumps
+- `bin/` — Final outputs
+  - `lib/` — Shared libraries (.so/.dll)
+  - `tools/` — Executables
+- `config.ini` — Global build configuration
+- `README.md` — Project overview (generated by Lana)
+- `.gitignore` — Generated ignore file tuned for Lana projects
diff --git a/docs/snippets/quickstart.md b/docs/snippets/quickstart.md
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..72b990c
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/snippets/quickstart.md
@@ -0,0 +1,18 @@
+## Quick Start
+1. Initialize a project:
+   ```bash
+   lana init myproject
+   cd myproject
+   ```
+2. Build it:
+   ```bash
+   lana build
+   ```
+3. Run the main tool:
+   ```bash
+   lana run
+   ```
+4. Clean artifacts:
+   ```bash
+   lana clean
+   ```
diff --git a/docs/templates/cli.cpp.tpl b/docs/templates/cli.cpp.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..b281ff2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/cli.cpp.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,15 @@
+// build-directive: unit-name(lib/cli)
+// build-directive: depends-units()
+// build-directive: link()
+// build-directive: out(lib/cli)
+// build-directive: shared(true)
+// build-directive: cflags(-fPIC)
+
+#include <iostream>
+#include "cli.h"
+
+namespace lana {
+    void print_help() {
+        std::cout << "Lana CLI help" << std::endl;
+    }
+}
diff --git a/docs/templates/cli.h.tpl b/docs/templates/cli.h.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..4f007d2
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/cli.h.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,8 @@
+#ifndef LANA_CLI_H
+#define LANA_CLI_H
+
+namespace lana {
+    void print_help();
+}
+
+#endif
diff --git a/docs/templates/config.ini.tpl b/docs/templates/config.ini.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..a06a554
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/config.ini.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,24 @@
+# {{project_name}} lana build configuration
+
+[global]
+project_name = {{project_name}}
+src_dir = src
+build_dir = build
+bin_dir = bin
+compiler = g++
+debug = true
+optimize = false
+verbose = false
+parallel_compilation = true
+include_dirs = include
+lib_search_paths =
+cflags = -Wall -Wextra
+ldflags =
+
+dependencies_dir = dependencies
+
+[shared_libs]
+# legacy/manual entries go here when you don't want build directives
+
+[tools]
+# legacy/manual entries go here when you don't want build directives
diff --git a/docs/templates/example_tool.cpp.tpl b/docs/templates/example_tool.cpp.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0cdb28d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/example_tool.cpp.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,13 @@
+#include <iostream>
+#include "cli.h"
+
+// build-directive: unit-name(tools/example_tool)
+// build-directive: depends-units(lib/cli)
+// build-directive: link(cli.so)
+// build-directive: out(tools/example_tool)
+
+int main() {
+    std::cout << "Tool example" << std::endl;
+    lana::print_help();
+    return 0;
+}
diff --git a/docs/templates/gitignore.tpl b/docs/templates/gitignore.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..cd975c8
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/gitignore.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,23 @@
+# Build files
+build/
+bin/
+*.o
+*.exe
+*.dSYM
+*.d
+*.so
+*.dll
+*.dylib
+
+# IDE files
+.vscode/
+.idea/
+*.swp
+*.swo
+
+# OS files
+.DS_Store
+Thumbs.db
+
+# Dependencies
+dependencies/
diff --git a/docs/templates/main.cpp.tpl b/docs/templates/main.cpp.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..458c101
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/main.cpp.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,11 @@
+#include <iostream>
+
+// build-directive: unit-name(tools/main)
+// build-directive: depends-units()
+// build-directive: link()
+// build-directive: out(tools/main)
+
+int main() {
+    std::cout << "Hello, {{project_name}}!" << std::endl;
+    return 0;
+}
diff --git a/docs/templates/readme.md.tpl b/docs/templates/readme.md.tpl
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..0ae2c3d
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docs/templates/readme.md.tpl
@@ -0,0 +1,13 @@
+# {{project_name}}
+
+A C++ project built with the [Lana build system](https://github.com/lana-build/lana/blob/main/docs/guide.md).
+
+{{quickstart}}
+
+{{project_structure}}
+
+## Build Directives
+Lana reads build instructions directly from your source files. Add `// build-directive:` comments near the top of a translation unit to specify unit names, dependencies, and custom flags. See `docs/guide.md#build-directives` for the full catalog.
+
+## Configuration
+Global build settings live in `config.ini`. Command-line flags override config values, which override built-in defaults. Consult `docs/guide.md#configuration` for details and advanced examples.
diff --git a/docstore/docstore.v b/docstore/docstore.v
new file mode 100644
index 0000000..07d29de
--- /dev/null
+++ b/docstore/docstore.v
@@ -0,0 +1,43 @@
+module docstore
+
+const snippet_project_structure_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/snippets/project_structure.md')
+const snippet_quickstart_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/snippets/quickstart.md')
+const template_main_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/main.cpp.tpl')
+const template_cli_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/cli.cpp.tpl')
+const template_example_tool_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/example_tool.cpp.tpl')
+const template_cli_header_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/cli.h.tpl')
+const template_gitignore_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/gitignore.tpl')
+const template_config_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/config.ini.tpl')
+const template_readme_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/templates/readme.md.tpl')
+const guide_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/guide.md')
+const help_text_embedded = $embed_file('../docs/help.txt')
+
+pub fn snippet(name string) !string {
+    return match name {
+        'project_structure' { snippet_project_structure_embedded.to_string() }
+        'quickstart' { snippet_quickstart_embedded.to_string() }
+        else { error('snippet ${name} not found') }
+    }
+}
+
+pub fn template(name string) !string {
+    return match name {
+        'main.cpp.tpl' { template_main_embedded.to_string() }
+        'cli.cpp.tpl' { template_cli_embedded.to_string() }
+        'example_tool.cpp.tpl' { template_example_tool_embedded.to_string() }
+        'cli.h.tpl' { template_cli_header_embedded.to_string() }
+        'gitignore.tpl' { template_gitignore_embedded.to_string() }
+        '.gitignore.tpl' { template_gitignore_embedded.to_string() }
+        'config.ini.tpl' { template_config_embedded.to_string() }
+        'readme.md.tpl' { template_readme_embedded.to_string() }
+        else { error('template ${name} not found') }
+    }
+}
+
+pub fn guide() string {
+    return guide_embedded.to_string()
+}
+
+pub fn help_text() string {
+    return help_text_embedded.to_string()
+}
diff --git a/help/help.v b/help/help.v
index 781b687..1c79b9d 100644
--- a/help/help.v
+++ b/help/help.v
@@ -1,57 +1,7 @@
 module help
 
+import docstore
+
 pub fn show_help() {
-    println('lana - Vlang C++ Build System')
-    println('Usage: lana [command] [options]')
-    println('')
-    println('Commands:')
-    println('  build           Build the project (shared libs + tools)')
-    println('  clean           Clean build files')
-    println('  run             Build and run the main tool')
-    println('  init <name>     Initialize new project')
-    println('')
-    println('Options:')
-    println('  -d, --debug     Enable debug mode')
-    println('  -O, --optimize  Enable optimization')
-    println('  -v, --verbose   Verbose output')
-    println('  -p, --parallel  Enable parallel compilation')
-    println('  -o, --output    Set output name')
-    println('  -I <dir>        Add include directory')
-    println('  -l <lib>        Add library')
-    println('  --config <file> Use config file')
-    println('  --shared-lib <name> <source>  Add shared library')
-    println('  --tool <name> <source>        Add tool/executable')
-    println('')
-    println('Configuration File (config.ini):')
-    println('  [global]')
-    println('  project_name = myproject')
-    println('  src_dir = src')
-    println('  debug = true')
-    println('  ')
-    println('  [shared_libs]')
-    println('  name = net')
-    println('  sources = src/lib/net/connection.cpp')
-    println('  libraries = cli')
-    println('  ')
-    println('  [tools]')
-    println('  name = dumpnbt')
-    println('  sources = src/tools/dumpnbt.cpp')
-    println('  libraries = nbt,cli')
-    println('')
-    println('Examples:')
-    println('  lana build -d -v -p')
-    println('  lana run')
-    println('  lana build --shared-lib cli src/lib/cli.cpp --tool dumpnbt src/tools/dumpnbt.cpp')
-    println('  lana init myproject')
-    println('')
-    println('Project Structure:')
-    println('  src/           - Source files (.cpp, .cc, .cxx)')
-    println('    lib/         - Shared library sources')
-    println('    tools/       - Tool/executable sources')
-    println('  include/       - Header files (.h, .hpp)')
-    println('  build/         - Object files and intermediates')
-    println('  bin/           - Output')
-    println('    lib/         - Shared libraries (.so/.dll)')
-    println('    tools/       - Executables')
-    println('  config.ini     - Build configuration')
+    print(docstore.help_text())
 }
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/initializer/initializer.v b/initializer/initializer.v
index 5a92a6f..4bf8cde 100644
--- a/initializer/initializer.v
+++ b/initializer/initializer.v
@@ -1,11 +1,20 @@
 module initializer
 
 import os
+import docstore
+
+fn render_template(template string, replacements map[string]string) string {
+    mut output := template
+    for key, value in replacements {
+        placeholder := '{{${key}}}'
+        output = output.replace(placeholder, value)
+    }
+    return output
+}
 
 pub fn init_project(project_name string) {
     println('Initializing C++ project: ${project_name}')
     
-    // Create directory structure
     dirs := [
         'src',
         'src/lib',
@@ -16,7 +25,7 @@ pub fn init_project(project_name string) {
         'build',
         'bin',
         'bin/lib',
-    'bin/tools'
+        'bin/tools',
     ]
     for dir in dirs {
         full_path := os.join_path(project_name, dir)
@@ -24,371 +33,48 @@ pub fn init_project(project_name string) {
             println('Warning: Failed to create ${full_path}: ${err}')
         }
     }
-    
-    // Create basic main.cpp with build directives
-    main_content := r'
-#include <iostream>
 
-// build-directive: unit-name(tools/main)
-// build-directive: depends-units()
-// build-directive: link()
-// build-directive: out(tools/main)
-
-int main() {
-    std::cout << "Hello, ${project_name}!" << std::endl;
-    return 0;
-}
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, 'src', 'main.cpp'), main_content) or { }
-    
-    // Create example shared library with build directives
-    cli_content := r'
-// build-directive: unit-name(lib/cli)
-// build-directive: depends-units()
-// build-directive: link()
-// build-directive: out(lib/cli)
-// build-directive: shared(true)
-
-#include <iostream>
-
-namespace lana {
-    void print_help() {
-        std::cout << "Lana CLI help" << std::endl;
+    replacements := {
+        'project_name': project_name
     }
-}
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, 'src/lib', 'cli.cpp'), cli_content) or { }
-    
-    // Create example tool with build directives
-    tool_content := r'
-#include <iostream>
-// build-directive: unit-name(tools/example_tool)
-// build-directive: depends-units(lib/cli)
-// build-directive: link(cli.so)
-// build-directive: out(tools/example_tool)
 
-int main() {
-    std::cout << "Tool example" << std::endl;
-    lana::print_help();
-    return 0;
-}
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, 'src/tools', 'example_tool.cpp'), tool_content) or { }
-    
-    // Create .gitignore
-    gitignore_content := r'
-# Build files
-build/
-bin/
-*.o
-*.exe
-*.dSYM
-*.d
-*.so
-*.dll
-*.dylib
+    quickstart := docstore.snippet('quickstart') or { 'See docs/snippets/quickstart.md in the Lana repo.' }
+    structure := docstore.snippet('project_structure') or { 'See docs/snippets/project_structure.md in the Lana repo.' }
 
-# IDE files
-.vscode/
-.idea/
-*.swp
-*.swo
+    write_template(project_name, 'src/main.cpp', 'main.cpp.tpl', replacements)
+    write_template(project_name, 'src/lib/cli.cpp', 'cli.cpp.tpl', replacements)
+    write_template(project_name, 'src/tools/example_tool.cpp', 'example_tool.cpp.tpl', replacements)
+    write_template(project_name, '.gitignore', 'gitignore.tpl', replacements)
+    write_template(project_name, 'config.ini', 'config.ini.tpl', replacements)
 
-# OS files
-.DS_Store
-Thumbs.db
+    mut readme_map := replacements.clone()
+    readme_map['quickstart'] = quickstart.trim_space()
+    readme_map['project_structure'] = structure.trim_space()
+    write_template_with_map(project_name, 'README.md', 'readme.md.tpl', readme_map)
 
-# Dependencies
-dependencies/
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, '.gitignore'), gitignore_content) or { }
-    
-    // Create config.ini with build directive support
-    config_content := r'
-# ${project_name} lana build configuration
+    write_template(project_name, 'include/cli.h', 'cli.h.tpl', replacements)
 
-[global]
-project_name = ${project_name}
-src_dir = src
-build_dir = build
-bin_dir = bin
-compiler = g++
-debug = true
-optimize = false
-verbose = false
-parallel_compilation = true
-include_dirs = include
-lib_search_paths = 
-cflags = -Wall -Wextra
-ldflags = 
-
-# Build directives will be automatically parsed from source files
-# using // build-directive: comments
-
-[shared_libs]
-# These are for legacy support or manual configuration
-# Most shared libraries should use build directives in source files
-
-[tools]
-# These are for legacy support or manual configuration
-# Most tools should use build directives in source files
-
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, 'config.ini'), config_content) or { }
-    
-    // Create README.md with build directive documentation
-    readme_content := r'
-# ${project_name}
-
-A C++ project built with lana (Vlang C++ Build System)
-
-## Getting Started
-
-### Build the project
-```bash
-lana build
-```
-
-### Run the main executable
-```bash
-lana run
-```
-
-### Run a specific tool
-```bash
-./bin/tools/example_tool
-```
-
-### Clean build files
-```bash
-lana clean
-```
-
-## Project Structure
-- `src/` - Source files (.cpp, .cc, .cxx)
-  - `lib/` - Shared library sources
-  - `tools/` - Tool/executable sources
-- `include/` - Header files (.h, .hpp)  
-- `build/` - Object files and intermediate build files
-- `bin/` - Executable output
-  - `lib/` - Shared libraries (.so/.dll)
-  - `tools/` - Tool executables
-- `config.ini` - Build configuration
-
-## Build Directives
-
-Lana reads build instructions directly from source files using special comments:
-
-```
-// build-directive: unit-name(tools/arraydump)
-// build-directive: depends-units(lib/file,lib/cli)
-// build-directive: link(file.so,cli.so)
-// build-directive: out(tools/arraydump)
-// build-directive: cflags(-Wall -Wextra)
-// build-directive: ldflags()
-// build-directive: shared(true)
-```
-
-### Directive Types
-
-- **unit-name**: Name of the build unit (e.g., "tools/arraydump", "lib/file")
-- **depends-units**: Dependencies for this unit (other units or libraries)
-- **link**: Libraries to link against (e.g., "file.so", "cli.so")
-- **out**: Output path for the binary (relative to bin/)
-- **cflags**: Additional CFLAGS for this file
-- **ldflags**: Additional LDFLAGS for this file  
-- **shared**: Whether this is a shared library (true/false)
-
-### Example Source File
-
-```cpp
-// build-directive: unit-name(tools/dumpnbt)
-// build-directive: depends-units(lib/nbt,lib/cli)
-// build-directive: link(nbt.so,cli.so)
-// build-directive: out(tools/dumpnbt)
-// build-directive: cflags()
-// build-directive: ldflags()
-// build-directive: shared(false)
-
-#include <iostream>
-#include "nbt.h"
-#include "cli.h"
-
-int main() {
-    // Your code here
-    return 0;
-}
-```
-
-## Configuration
-Edit `config.ini` to customize global build settings:
-
-### Global Settings
-```ini
-[global]
-project_name = myproject
-compiler = g++
-debug = true
-optimize = false
-verbose = false
-parallel_compilation = true
-include_dirs = include,external/lib/include
-lib_search_paths = /usr/local/lib,external/lib
-cflags = -Wall -Wextra -std=c++17
-ldflags = -pthread
-```
-
-### Shared Libraries (Legacy)
-```ini
-[shared_libs]
-name = cli
-sources = src/lib/cli.cpp
-libraries = 
-include_dirs = include
-cflags = 
-ldflags = 
-```
-
-### Tools (Legacy)
-```ini
-[tools]
-name = main
-sources = src/main.cpp
-libraries = cli
-
-name = example_tool
-sources = src/tools/example_tool.cpp  
-libraries = cli
-```
-
-## Command Line Options
-```bash
-lana build [options]
-  -d, --debug            Enable debug mode
-  -O, --optimize         Enable optimization
-  -v, --verbose          Verbose output
-  -p, --parallel         Parallel compilation
-  -c, --compiler <name>  Set C++ compiler (default: g++)
-  -o <name>              Set project name
-  -I <dir>               Add include directory
-  -L <dir>               Add library search path
-  -l <lib>               Add global library
-  --config <file>        Use custom config file
-  --shared-lib <name> <source>  Add shared library (legacy)
-  --tool <name> <source>        Add tool (legacy)
-```
-
-## Build Process
-
-1. **Parse build directives** from source files
-2. **Build dependency graph** based on unit dependencies
-3. **Compile source files** to object files
-4. **Link libraries and executables** according to directives
-5. **Execute dependency hooks** declared under `[dependencies]` (ideal for assets like shaders)
-
-The build system automatically handles:
-- Dependency resolution and build ordering
-- Incremental builds (only rebuild changed files)
-- Shared library vs executable detection
-- Custom flags per file
-- Parallel compilation
-
-## Examples
-
-### Simple Tool
-```cpp
-// build-directive: unit-name(tools/calculator)
-// build-directive: depends-units()
-// build-directive: link()
-// build-directive: out(tools/calculator)
-
-#include <iostream>
-
-int main() {
-    int a, b;
-    std::cin >> a >> b;
-    std::cout << "Sum: " << a + b << std::endl;
-    return 0;
-}
-```
-
-### Shared Library with Dependencies
-```cpp
-// build-directive: unit-name(lib/math)
-// build-directive: depends-units(lib/utils)
-// build-directive: link(utils.so)
-// build-directive: out(lib/math)
-// build-directive: shared(true)
-// build-directive: cflags(-fPIC)
-
-#include "utils.h"
-
-namespace math {
-    double add(double a, double b) {
-        return a + b;
-    }
-}
-```
-
-### Complex Tool with Multiple Dependencies
-```cpp
-// build-directive: unit-name(tools/game)
-// build-directive: depends-units(lib/graphics,lib/audio,lib/input)
-// build-directive: link(graphics.so,audio.so,input.so,glfw,SDL2)
-// build-directive: out(tools/game)
-// build-directive: cflags(-DDEBUG)
-// build-directive: ldflags(-pthread)
-
-#include "graphics.h"
-#include "audio.h"
-#include "input.h"
-
-int main() {
-    // Game loop
-    return 0;
-}
-```
-
-## License
-
-MIT License - see LICENSE file for details.
-
-## Contributing
-
-1. Fork the repository
-2. Create a feature branch
-3. Make your changes
-4. Submit a pull request
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, 'README.md'), readme_content) or { }
-    
-    // Create example header
-    header_content := r'
-#ifndef LANA_CLI_H
-#define LANA_CLI_H
-
-namespace lana {
-    void print_help();
-}
-
-#endif
-'
-    os.write_file(os.join_path(project_name, 'include', 'cli.h'), header_content) or { }
-    
     println('Project initialized successfully!')
     println('Created directory structure and template files')
-    println('')
-    println('Usage:')
+    println('\nNext steps:')
     println('  cd ${project_name}')
     println('  lana build')
     println('  lana run')
     println('  ./bin/tools/example_tool')
-    println('')
-    println('Build Directives:')
-    println('  Add // build-directive: comments to your source files')
-    println('  See README.md for examples and documentation')
-    println('Configuration:')
-    println('  Edit config.ini for global build settings')
-    println('  Add your C++ source files to src/lib/ and src/tools/')
-    println('  Use [dependencies] entries for extra asset steps (e.g., shader compilation)')
+    println('\nDocs and templates originate from docs/ in the Lana repo. Update them once to affect README/help/init output everywhere.')
+}
+
+fn write_template(root string, relative_path string, template_name string, replacements map[string]string) {
+    write_template_with_map(root, relative_path, template_name, replacements)
+}
+
+fn write_template_with_map(root string, relative_path string, template_name string, replacements map[string]string) {
+    content := docstore.template(template_name) or {
+        println('Warning: template ${template_name} missing (${err})')
+        return
+    }
+    rendered := render_template(content, replacements)
+    os.write_file(os.join_path(root, relative_path), rendered) or {
+        println('Warning: failed to write ${relative_path}: ${err}')
+    }
 }
\ No newline at end of file
diff --git a/lana.v b/lana.v
index 4ad389a..46102e3 100644
--- a/lana.v
+++ b/lana.v
@@ -8,68 +8,72 @@ import initializer
 import deps
 import help
 
-const (
-    // For runner compatibility
-    bin_dir = 'bin'
-    tools_dir = 'bin/tools'
-)
+// For runner compatibility
+const bin_dir = 'bin'
+const tools_dir = 'bin/tools'
 
 fn main() {
-    mut config_data := config.parse_args() or { config.default_config }
-    
-    if os.args.len < 2 {
-        help.show_help()
-        return
-    }
-    
-    match os.args[1] {
-        'build' { 
-            builder.build(mut config_data) or { 
-                eprintln('Build failed: ${err}')
-                exit(1)
-            }
-        }
-        'clean' { builder.clean(config_data) }
-        'run' { 
-            // For run, try to build first, then run the main tool
-            builder.build(mut config_data) or { 
-                eprintln('Build failed: ${err}')
-                exit(1)
-            }
-            
-            // Find and run the main executable (first tool or project_name)
-            main_executable := get_main_executable(config_data)
-            if main_executable != '' && os.is_file(main_executable) {
-                runner.run_executable(config_data)
-            } else {
-                println('No main executable found to run')
-            }
-        }
-        'init' { initializer.init_project(os.args[2] or { 'myproject' }) }
-        'setup' {
-            deps.fetch_dependencies(config_data) or {
-                eprintln('Failed to fetch dependencies: ${err}')
-                exit(1)
-            }
-        }
-        else { help.show_help() }
-    }
+	mut config_data := config.parse_args() or { config.default_config }
+
+	if os.args.len < 2 {
+		help.show_help()
+		return
+	}
+
+	match os.args[1] {
+		'build' {
+			builder.build(mut config_data) or {
+				eprintln('Build failed: ${err}')
+				exit(1)
+			}
+		}
+		'clean' {
+			builder.clean(config_data)
+		}
+		'run' {
+			// For run, try to build first, then run the main tool
+			builder.build(mut config_data) or {
+				eprintln('Build failed: ${err}')
+				exit(1)
+			}
+
+			// Find and run the main executable (first tool or project_name)
+			main_executable := get_main_executable(config_data)
+			if main_executable != '' && os.is_file(main_executable) {
+				runner.run_executable(config_data)
+			} else {
+				println('No main executable found to run')
+			}
+		}
+		'init' {
+			initializer.init_project(os.args[2] or { 'myproject' })
+		}
+		'setup' {
+			deps.fetch_dependencies(config_data) or {
+				eprintln('Failed to fetch dependencies: ${err}')
+				exit(1)
+			}
+		}
+		else {
+			help.show_help()
+		}
+	}
 }
 
 fn get_main_executable(build_config config.BuildConfig) string {
-    // First try to find a tool with the project name
-    for tool_config in build_config.tools {
-        if tool_config.name == build_config.project_name {
-            return os.join_path(tool_config.output_dir, tool_config.name)
-        }
-    }
-    
-    // Then try the first tool
-    if build_config.tools.len > 0 {
-        tool_config := build_config.tools[0]
-        return os.join_path(tool_config.output_dir, tool_config.name)
-    }
-    
-    // Fallback to old behavior
-    return os.join_path(build_config.bin_dir, build_config.project_name)
-}
\ No newline at end of file
+	// First try to find a tool with the project name
+	for tool_config in build_config.tools {
+		if tool_config.name == build_config.project_name {
+			return os.join_path(tool_config.output_dir, tool_config.name)
+		}
+	}
+
+	// Then try the first tool
+	if build_config.tools.len > 0 {
+		tool_config := build_config.tools[0]
+		return os.join_path(tool_config.output_dir, tool_config.name)
+	}
+
+	// Fallback to old behavior
+	return os.join_path(build_config.bin_dir, build_config.project_name)
+}