How I use ULIDs when sortable IDs help

A ULID is an identifier that includes a timestamp part, so generated IDs sort roughly by creation time.

The ULID Generator tool helps with the mechanical part, but I still check the result before using it somewhere real.

The simple idea

A ULID is an identifier that includes a timestamp part, so generated IDs sort roughly by creation time.

I use the tool to make the transformation visible: input on one side, output on the other, and a quick sanity check before I copy anything.

Step 1: Generate a single ULID to see the format

Generate a single ULID to see the format.

Step 2: Generate several and notice the sort order

Generate several and notice the sort order.

Step 3: Use ULIDs when chronological sorting is helpful

Use ULIDs when chronological sorting is helpful.

Step 4: Avoid ULIDs when revealing creation time is a problem

Avoid ULIDs when revealing creation time is a problem.

Step 5: Store them consistently as uppercase strings unless your system chooses otherwise

Store them consistently as uppercase strings unless your system chooses otherwise.

Step 6: Do not use ULIDs as secrets

Do not use ULIDs as secrets.

Step 7: Compare with UUIDs before choosing an ID format for a project

Compare with UUIDs before choosing an ID format for a project.

My checklist

Before I trust the result, I check:

• Generate a single ULID to see the format.
• Generate several and notice the sort order.
• Use ULIDs when chronological sorting is helpful.
• Avoid ULIDs when revealing creation time is a problem.
• Store them consistently as uppercase strings unless your system chooses otherwise.
• Do not use ULIDs as secrets.
• Compare with UUIDs before choosing an ID format for a project.

Small utilities are useful because they remove repetitive work. They are safest when the output is still reviewed.