chezmoiexternal vs install scripts

[MrMarble]

Hi! I've been using chezmoi for about a week, and I'm loving it so far! I'm almost done migrating all my config to chezmoi, but I have a question.

What is the correct/intended way of managing external dependencies? I'm pushing all the way using the chezmoiexternal file, but looking through some dotfiles repositories (including yours @twpayne 👀) I'm seeing a lot of people using scripts to install part of the external tools they use.

Is there any reasoning for that usage or just personal preference?

[twpayne]

.chezmoiexternal is for pulling files, directories, and git repos into your home directory.

Scripts can be used for anything, e.g. using a package manager to install packages you want.

I would recommend using .chezmoiexternal if possible, and a script only if necessary.