TUI Framework for Dart

[Charu Awasthi]

Hi Mudit,

I’ve been going through the proposed GSoC idea for a TUI Framework for Dart and wanted to share some thoughts after analyzing the scope and existing gaps. I’m really excited about the opportunity to contribute to this, and I believe my skill set aligns well with the project’s goals.

I had put some code snippets in the proposal .kindly once go through it

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🔍 A Few Key Observations:

1. Lack of Layout Abstractions:
   Most Dart CLI libraries (like args or cli_util) are focused on parsing or output, but not on layout. Building a proper layout engine—something like Flex/Grid for terminal—could massively boost the usability of this framework.

2. Component Composability:
   Many TUI libraries (like textual in Python) offer clean abstractions for building composable widgets. Dart lacks this concept in the terminal space. I believe implementing composable StatelessComponent / StatefulComponent classes, with lifecycle and event hooks, could set a solid foundation.

3. Pointer Event Handling in Terminal:
   This is an overlooked feature in many terminal libraries. Supporting mouse interactions like hover, click, and drag would set this Dart package apart and bring it closer to modern CLI tooling.

4. No Visual Debug Mode:
   For developer-friendliness, a debug mode that prints component boundaries or layout info directly in the terminal during development could significantly improve DX (Developer Experience).

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🧠 My Approach:

With my experience in Python, advanced UI/UX concepts, and open-source development, I’m planning to:

• Design a modular layout engine to allow nesting and responsive resizing

• Create a base widget class system with focus, state, and update lifecycle

• Add support for mouse/pointer events using ANSI escape sequences and parsing mouse modes

• Build a few interactive sample apps (like todo-list, file browser) to validate the framework's extensibility

• Use snapshot testing to verify rendering consistency across terminals

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🔧 My Skillset That Aligns:

• Proficient in Dart, Python, and C++

• Hands-on experience in advanced Python scripting, CLI tools, and UI/UX design

• Familiar with state management patterns and event-driven architecture

• Passionate about clean architecture and creating developer-focused tools

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If selected, I’ll be committing 30-35 hours per week, keeping regular sync with you and the community. I’d love to hear your feedback on these ideas — especially the layout abstraction and pointer handling — and discuss how we can push Dart’s boundaries in the terminal space together.

Looking forward to your thoughts!

Best regards,
Charu Awasthi
[linkedin] | [github] | [GSOC Dashboard]