example-skill

This skill should be used when the user asks to "demonstrate skills", "show skill format", "create a skill template", or discusses skill development patterns. Provides a reference template for creating Claude Code plugin skills.

Example Skill

This skill demonstrates the structure and format for Claude Code plugin skills.

Overview

Skills are model-invoked capabilities that Claude autonomously uses based on task context. Unlike commands (user-invoked) or agents (spawned by Claude), skills provide contextual guidance that Claude incorporates into its responses.

When This Skill Applies

This skill activates when the user's request involves:

Creating or understanding plugin skills
Skill template or reference needs
Skill development patterns

Skill Structure

Required Files

skills/
└── skill-name/
    └── SKILL.md          # Main skill definition (required)

Optional Supporting Files

skills/
└── skill-name/
    ├── SKILL.md          # Main skill definition
    ├── README.md         # Additional documentation
    ├── references/       # Reference materials
    │   └── patterns.md
    ├── examples/         # Example files
    │   └── sample.md
    └── scripts/          # Helper scripts
        └── helper.sh

Frontmatter Options

Skills support these frontmatter fields:

name (required): Skill identifier
description (required): Trigger conditions - describe when Claude should use this skill
version (optional): Semantic version number
license (optional): License information or reference

Writing Effective Descriptions

The description field is crucial - it tells Claude when to invoke the skill.

Good description patterns:

description: This skill should be used when the user asks to "specific phrase", "another phrase", mentions "keyword", or discusses topic-area.

Include:

Specific trigger phrases users might say
Keywords that indicate relevance
Topic areas the skill covers

Skill Content Guidelines

Clear purpose: State what the skill helps with
When to use: Define activation conditions
Structured guidance: Organize information logically
Actionable instructions: Provide concrete steps
Examples: Include practical examples when helpful

Best Practices

Keep skills focused on a single domain
Write descriptions that clearly indicate when to activate
Include reference materials in subdirectories for complex skills
Test that the skill activates for expected queries
Avoid overlap with other skills' trigger conditions